Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Tamarindo to Jaco?
The direct drive from Tamarindo to Jaco is 144 mi (231 km), and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 42 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Tamarindo to Jaco, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Playa Samara, and Alajuela, as well as top places to visit like The Congo Trail and Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica, or the ever-popular Playa Conchal.
The top cities between Tamarindo and Jaco are Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna de San Carlos, Playa Samara, and Alajuela. Arenal Volcano National Park is the most popular city on the route. It's 4 hours from Tamarindo and 3 hours from Jaco.
Samara Beach is a popular beach destination with a horseshoe shape, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers various amenities such as nearby shops and restaurants catering to tourists. It is important to note that some freelance parking personnel may ask visitors for a small fee to use their service. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at places like La Casita de Mr Wagner or drinks at the restaurant with access to the beach offering stunning views of the sunset.
Beautiful beach, very long. The northern portion is easier for swimming, in the southern portion waves are bigger and better for surfing.
Louise Brazeau Wong — Google review
Amazing place for a short or even long vacation. I was living in Sàmara and I had the best times. I could definitely live there.
The beach is great, the people are so lovely, the village is small but very nice.
You find delicious restaurants or homemade food - it’s a perfect surfing spot for beginners, for intermediates in the surroundings also - great hiking spots - waterfalls nearby - the best sunsets - island life on isla chora :) - full moon parties - what else? :) I think Sàmara is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been!!!! ❤️❤️
Carolin Pfeifer — Google review
Beautiful beach! Such a large beach that you will have no problem finding a spot away from people. So many little restaurants along the beach. Small park next to the police station has freshwater showers. If you need to escape the sun or heat there are quite a few trees that line the beach to set up under. Saw surfers and horses.
Cee Dupree — Google review
This beach was a great find. It is pretty touristy so be warned if you are looking for a more local-like atmosphere. There are also those freelance parking guys walking around so you might have to pay a couple hundred colones to buy some peace. We ate at La Casita de Mr Wagner and it was delicious. We also drinks at the restaurant with beach access and blue umbrellas directly across from that food courts. My friend and I both agreed they were the best versions of each drink that we had ever had (mojito and piña colada). What a good place and pretty good location. We drove from Monteverde no problem.
Cassidy Crawford — Google review
I almost don’t want to write a positive review because I love Playa Samara so much, I’m dreading some day it will lose it’s magical, small, locally-owned, bohemian beach appeal. The waves are great for surfing newbies to intermediates, playing in the sand or drinking a tropical beverage from one of the nice restaurants right on the beach. I ❤️ Samara 🏝️
Christine Larson — Google review
Lovely not too busy beach and town. It has an small island and a rock/coral break to protect the bay from large waves. There's still waves good enough to work on your surf board skills. Lots of restaurants and accommodations for vacations. Many expats live there.
Barefoot mart — Google review
Fantastic beach, very clean, decent amount of parking. Very kid friendly. Great sunsets.
Rajeshkumar Janarthanan — Google review
Great mix between tropical paradise, chill atmosphere yet very convenient with nice restaurants and a bit of shopping.
Karsten Lyby — Google review
Very beautiful. Less crowded than other beach towns like Tamarindo. Very warm water. Worth the drive.
Kay W — Google review
A nice and quiet beach, great for walking, lots of little beach restaurants. Watch out for jellyfish in the waters.
Alice O C — Google review
Fun beach with quite a few restaurants. Town is right near the beach. Walk the entire length of the beach during low tide. Occasional wild horses. Some decent fishing and shells.
Katy Stevens — Google review
Lovely beach with a relaxing atmosphere. Lots of nice bars and restaurants around as well.
Lisa Krauss — Google review
In December the water is really nice and warm but not like a bath water so it's refreshing. Easy waves so you are able to swim or just float. I visited for the day and found an area under some trees with shade to sit on a towel. It looked like you could rent chairs and boogie boards on the beach. Not crowded on a Monday.
Chad — Google review
My favorite beach, not too busy, great selection of restaurants lining the beach, waves not too big that you can enjoy the water.
Glenn Bartlett — Google review
The water is really nice and you are able to swim . The water is warm . But there should be more sitting areas .bring a towel to sit on the floor . There are couple of stores and restaurants around the area .we stayed the resort near we tried to walk but it was unsafe the roads are to narrow and grass is on slant. Will recommend ask the resort to book a taxi for your travel there . It cost us $10 to get there .
Garthigga Yoganathan — Google review
Beautiful, vibrant, and spacious beach with a good number of people—not overly crowded. Many surf rental shops right by the beach, as well as beachside restaurants/bars. Volleyball and soccer fields available. A safe beach, perfect for beginner surfers and boogie boarding.
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal is a sprawling 29,700-acre forested national park that offers spectacular trails through the lava fields of an active volcano. Despite its ever-active nature from 1968 to 2010, the mountain still remains a remarkable sightseeing spot for tourists.
Pepe with Ecoterra tours took us on a private guided hike for breathtaking views. He knew so much about the volcano history, local flora and fauna and was an amazing guide. He was patient with us when we needed to rest and at the end of our hike he had cold beers/water/soda, fresh pineapple and cookies waiting for us in the shade.
The walking sticks he had were a lifesaver. Great tour guide - friendly, fun and knowledgeable
Karen Williamson — Google review
A “MUST VISIT” !!! Her amazing natural beauty is seen throughout our visit. My photos do not begin to capture the raw beauty available to the human eye. Seeing the waterfalls first from a far distance to eventually up close is a incredible memory. Remember when you take the 500 steps down that you must take the steps back up. Fortunately for me many levels of Resting areas. Also refreshments available along with multiple gift centers. A sign Warning yo use the bathroom services before you begin your journey down is a wise thought. Overall breathtaking experience!!
TravelingSolo23 — Google review
Exploring Parque Nacional Arenal was a serene experience, especially during the vocal walk. The tranquility of the surroundings made it a pleasant stroll. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the viewpoint that offers a stunning sight of the volcano. You have the option to either walk up to the viewpoint or conveniently drive if you have a vehicle. Whichever way you choose, the view is well worth the journey. A memorable spot for anyone seeking a tranquil escape and breathtaking vistas.
Vanessa Benavides — Google review
Incredible hike through the jungle and up the volcanic lava flow with boulders. Stunning close up view of the volcano and also of the lake down below. Easy walk except for the short walk through the Boulder field near the top. Lots of birds in the jungle. We loved this hike! I would highly recommend it!
Ernst Koehler — Google review
We hiked Parque National on our own and had a phenomenal time! There are two main portions to the park - a hike closer to the lava fields and the volcano (also, there’s a massive tree amidst this hike) and a second half closer to the lake. What an incredible experience. Would highly recommend. Wear solid hiking shoes please - we saw some ladies wearing sandals and those would not do well after a trudge in the mud.
Jonathan Ding — Google review
Small park but there was no one else there so it was quiet and beautiful. The trail is pretty simple if you’re going to the lake. Great views of the volcano from anywhere near by.
Michael — Google review
Overall pretty easy hike through one of Costa Rica's state park. During the off season and middle of the day the park is pretty empty. The cost is about $15 and allows for some beautiful views of the volcano at the halfway point once you walk across some lava stones.
NOTE: The large tree that this trail is know for must have been struck by lightening a few months ago and therefore is in several pieces. If you are an arborist, and this was one of your main reason for going then you might want to avoid this trail. Taking off one star due to the fact that the state park website doesn't let you know that the tree is now destroyed.
Kent Guthrie — Google review
Very cool place to do a self guided tour! Lots of signs with good info and a relatively easy hike. Got a little muddy in the rain but still not too hard.
Max Stephenson — Google review
Hopefully, you have a good guide to explain the history and geology of the volcano. Not a highlight of visiting LA Fortuna. They usually only let you hike to the base, and not very far up the mountain. There are viewing platforms for good views. Wear closed toe shoes, preferably hiking shoes or sneakers, if you don't mind the mild wear on the bottoms.
Kurt Monteiro — Google review
Gorgeous views and beautiful hike. Multiple trails to walk through with wildlife to watch along the way. Walked through all the trails and it was well worth it. Ticket included the Arenal lake trail with outlook tower.
Suzy — Google review
Highly recommend! The hike on the path to the Ceiba tree was strenuous largely due to it being extremely muddy, but we saw tons of wildlife along the way, including sloths, lizards of various types, toucans, many other birds and animals. Honestly, we saw more wildlife here than in the reserves we visited! The tree itself is truly majestic. The overview of the lava flows is breathtaking, and we caught it in the few minutes when the peak was out of the clouds the whole time we were there.
Lawrence A. Whitney — Google review
The view from the main point is good but you can probably get the same from out the park.
Less than 5 miles roundtrip. Something happened to the Ceiba tree, it was cut in half or maybe a natural disaster. The entry to this part of the park is currently closed, however, you can easily pass the stripe danger line and check out the tree. Entry is like 3$
Andres Herrera — Google review
The viewing deck has had great improvements from 5 years ago. There are pretty little spots for your Instagram pics. A new restaurant and bar is on top. It is a definite up hill walk if you have back, hip or leg issues like me. No cart was available to ride that day. Lovely view
Karen F Anderson — Google review
We loved this hike! We did the longest trail to have the best experience. Highly recommend to bring hiking shoes and bring water/snacks. The view is incredible and we would do it again! We had lunch at the cafeteria after our hike and the food was delicious.
Taylor Barsalo — Google review
Went on a guided tour of the grounds. Cool forest. Sad that you can't go up higher, but it's still beautiful.
The waterfall though is amazing! It has a nice eating area just above the falls.
Jessica Long — Google review
Very cool if you take your time to look for animals. Really good for birding but you're probably not going to see mammals other than coatis. Despite the weather report the clouds lifted somewhat after a few hours in the park.
Storm Borum — Google review
This is by far my favourite place in La Fortuna. The park trails will bring you through pine forests, plains, cattle farms, rainforests, waterfalls, hanging bridges and many more. The observatory, although a bit scary to climb, will give you a breathtaking view of the Arenal lake and volcano and Cerro Chato. All of that in about 2-4 hours depending on which trails you want to do.
You also have the option of doing the River Trails, which is the hardest one I have done in the area. Very steep, muddy and uneven terrain, with nothing really special at the end except for two river beds and the sense of pride and accomplishment you’ll get by finishing it.
This is a must if you are in the La Fortuna region!
Dominique Antonelli — Google review
Beautiful park with great trails. Definitely recommend trail #5 as it felt more tropical than the busy #4. Be prepared for mud on that trail.
Conrad Rygier — Google review
This was the least satisfying of the 6 National Parks / Reserves that we've visited during our time in Costa Rica.
It's very busy, like Manuel Antonio or Monteverde, but unlike the others this park does not have an extensive network of trails to absorb large numbers of visitors. This means you are never very far from a large tour group and you don't really get that sense of being somewhere wild or remote.
One of the trails is also used by cars, which means there are really on 6km walking trails.
There is no information centre.
There are decent views of Arenal and we did see a few Coatis, but we have seen more wildlife in and around La Fortuna, whilst walking on the quieter roads north of the town.
Not sure it's worth the effort / cost. The whole place feels a little abandoned and underfunded.
Bruce Learner — Google review
After the gate there is a large parking lot. We walked the overlook trail to the lava fields. The trail was mostly flat but there was a stairs case to the viewing point, which itself was very rocky. The wildlife was beautiful. 10/10
Jillian Henthorn — Google review
Most popular city on this route
1 hour off the main route, 55% of way to Jaco
Need a place to stay?
WhereWhere are you going
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
–
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
La Fortuna is a small Costa Rican town located northwest of San José that serves as a gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park. The area features two volcanoes, with active Arenal Volcano possessing still-laced lava flows and hot springs dotting the thermal Tabacón River at its foot, while dormant Chato Volcano boasts rainforest trails leading to La Fortuna Waterfall and its natural pool.
Alajuela is a district situated in the Alajuela canton of Costa Rica's Alajuela Province. It has been granted the status of city as it serves as the seat of the Municipality of Alajuela canton and is also considered as the capital of the province by being its first canton.
7% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
50 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Jaco
Best stops along Tamarindo to Jaco drive
The top stops along the way from Tamarindo to Jaco (with short detours) are Fortuna Waterfall, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, and Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa. Other popular stops include Jaco Beach, Samara Beach, and Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio.
Playa Conchal is a stunning 4km beach along the Gold Coast, known for its crushed-shell sands and clear waters, making it a popular spot for snorkeling. Accessible from Brasilito with a 15-minute walk, this beach offers an unforgettable experience. The northern end boasts more seashells while the southern end features sandy stretches. To avoid crowds, head south towards the W Resort and Westin hotels. Visitors are advised to be cautious of sudden deep areas in the sea.
Beautiful beach. Water was perfect temp, not too hot. Snokeling is good in the early morning. The beach seemed to be busiest in late morning. Love walking the beach at sunset. Watch out for horse poop if you walk on path under the trees, they do a lot of horse riding tours there.
LM — Google review
Extremely quiet during our visit very family friendly beach small restaurant had all your needs covered. Easy access to everything. Plenty of room for small kids and family. Rest rooms for men and women available smoothies and juice were available as well plenty of parking made the acces quite simple.
Jason Boulle — Google review
I highly recommend this place, just 15 minutes walking from Brasilito Beach. Local people are there to offer different kinds of services. The color of the water is something amazing. Also, there is a viewpoint just 5 minutes from conchal beach.
Eduardo Martinez Montiel — Google review
One of my favorite beaches in Costa Rica. Blue waters, light sand. But you have to walk about 10 minutes from brasilito to access the beach if you are not staying in Reserva or Westin which have direct access to the beach for its members.
The walk is worth it. Best to go during the day. The sea ground can get deep suddenly so be careful. Just walk a little further to find lots of small areas to chill and relax.
Best to get your drinks, food. Some chairs are available for rent on the busy part of the beach.
Geetanjali Chugh — Google review
This is a popular place for snorkeling. I saw many small private and your boats not too far from the beach anchored for snorkeling. There is a snorkeling gear rental shop on th beach. Parking is available at the end of the street near the beach entrance.
D kim — Google review
Best beach in the area! Clear water. Shallow. Warm water. There's tents and chairs to rent for the day or for a few hours. Vendors selling refreshing drinks also.
Chika Emeka — Google review
Playa Conchal lives up to the hype, it’s amazing! An easy 15 minute walk from the centre of Brasilito, it’s totally worth spending at least half a day or more if you came from a distance to visit (we just stayed in Brasilito so stayed for 3.5 hours). The eponymous seashells are more at the northern end of the beach and the further south you walk the beach becomes more sandy. To avoid people, walk in that direction along the beach and most hang around the W Resort and Westin hotels.
Harrison Sheremeta — Google review
One of the most incredible beaches I’ve seen. Starts with a reef full of colorful fish on the left, continues with a white sand beach and ends with a super fine sand on the left. Quite, feels really private. The ocean is clean and warm. Loved it!
A — Google review
Conchal is one of the best beaches of Costa Rica. The access is restricted for cars so you'd have to walk like a mile or so.
Alfonso Bonilla — Google review
We parked at Brasilito Beach, which is unimpressive, but followed the steady stream of people heading to Playa Conchal and were dazzled to walk over the hill and see the long stretch of beautiful beach with crystal clear water. Great place to spend the day, and well worth the effort to get to!
Brian Ludwig — Google review
Absolutely stunning. Only access is on foot passing through Playa Brasilito. Well worth the extra effort. Locals are there to offer drinks and food for purchase and beach shade/chairs and snorkel equipment for rent. There are NO amenities here unless you’re staying at the hotel nearby. Great snorkeling right off the beach near the rocky areas. Water is turquoise and clear.
Pia Wilson — Google review
Very nice area, amazing beach with San that is fit for all uses. The sea is strong and I wouldn’t recommend for swimming as u can get pulled out far. The view is stunning and there are lots of options of activities to do.
Harry Teasel — Google review
Beautiful beach. Beware of the high waves.. we placed our belongings high and dry, which turned out not to be high enough bc a rogue wave swept our belongs into the water..
Brad D — Google review
Really beautiful beach with tropical weather. The road to go there is a bit tricky if rains but with a 4x4 you won’t have any problem. Beach has sand wild life and waves are strong. Trees are close to the sea and looks really natural.
Ricard CT — Google review
Amazingly beautiful beach. Good spots to lay back in the sand. The surf is too rough for small children but awesome for anyone that can swim. Also a great place to watch the sunset! Will return!
Kurtis Morrison — Google review
Nice beach, tough to get to but worth it. Nice Soda set up next to the parking atea
B — Google review
Loved the beach ⛱️ one of the best that I visited on this trip to Costa Rica 🇨🇷
We watched a beautiful sunset 🌅
Tania Nova — Google review
Great beach. We got up early and had the beach entire to ourselves. The eastern-most part of the beach is much more shell dense and had a mildly rocky path way to Brasilito Beach. The water is very clear since the sand is mostly crushed shells and doesn’t stay churned up in the waves.
The Congo Trail is an exhilarating adventure park located near Malapalo Beach, offering a variety of activities such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and ATV rides. Visitors can enjoy a thrilling experience with 10 zip lines and explore the animal rescue area at their own pace. The friendly tour guides ensure a safe and enjoyable time for all participants. The package includes multiple tours for a reasonable price, allowing guests to witness wild animals in their natural habitat and interact with rescued animals.
Friendly, fun and they made sure they respected how comfortable we were on the zip line but encouraged us to safely be a bit braver than we wanted. It was so much fun. The pictures turned out great and were decently priced. Everyone had fun. The animals in the wild and in the rescue place were so much fun to watch too. We got to feed the monkeys 🐒
Burchbeachgirl Mermaid — Google review
This was by far one of the best experiences I’ve had while in Costa Rica. I found them through Google maps and contacted them via Whatsapp to reserve. The package I bought included 3 tours (zip-lining, atv, and horseback riding) and at the end we walked around their animal rescue place for $95! Additionally, we got to see lots of wild animals which was pretty incredible! The guides were beyond amazing! Very friendly and accommodating. I would highly recommend them and would definitely come here again! Thank you for this wonderful experience (:
Evelyn Ortega — Google review
Had a great experience ziplining here. Very friendly staff and made it easy for my 7 year old to feel comfortable enjoying the experience. They are pretty reasonably priced as well. WhatsApp them from before hand to get the prices confirmed.
Mrinal Shah — Google review
My friend and I booked the horseback ride and monkey sanctuary tour on May 3, 2024, and it is absolutely NOTHING as described. The ride was barely an hour at mainly a walk, the only cantering was a very short distance from the sanctuary to the paddock. We might have been able to go faster except the guide was ON HIS PHONE the entire time. He pointed out a few things but my friend and I were basically left to just walk behind him with no attention or information. If I wanted to walk a horse and not know what I'm looking at, I could've done that at home for free. The horse was great and reminded me of mine, which made it more disappointing that the ride was so short and walking. The guide on the phone really upset me. I've worked as a trail guide and I would NEVER be on my phone the whole time. That is rude, unprofessional, and incredibly dangerous.
The website also said that you can feed some of the sanctuary animals and there is a petting zoo. Neither are true. The 2.5 hours the tour was supposed to take according to the website was less than 1 hr 45 min.
I am incredibly disappointed and upset that I chose this company over the many other options.
Caroline Isaac — Google review
This place is fantastic. Everyone is really nice. The horse back riding was really fun and healthy horses with well maintained trails. The zip lines are really fun and the animal rescue enclosure area was just amazing with lots of wild monkeys coming to join in the feeding. If you're in the area you should definitely stop here.
Mitchell Pfeiffer — Google review
Great first time experience on an ATV! Staff was nice. Tour itself was underwhelming, no stops, not much to experience. Was advised by the coordinator at the resort, afterwards, when asked for feedback, that this might be due to construction in the area, but they weren't aware of the change in path. The experience was enough to make me want to ride ATVs any place I visit, but when I return to CR, I will pick another company because I want to stop and actually experience the different locations. No one bothered to tell us the changes upfront.
Burthia Booker — Google review
This ATV tour was awesome! Our guide was super nice and stopped to point out lots of wildlife for us to watch. Driving the ATV was really fun and I would suggest getting an individual vs a double. There are restrooms and a gift shop on site. Make sure to wear sunscreen and bug spray!
wendy stanley — Google review
Amazing! 1st time zip-lining, felt very safe, amazing views and our guides were fun! For us who are larger (6'5" 300lbs) this was no problem at all.
David Grose — Google review
Beautiful hiking trails! We also got to see lots of wild life not sure what they were but everything was beautiful and most of the trails are payved or have sandbags or stones put down. Would recommend 5/5!
Zora Dots — Google review
This was a truly amazing experience, and our guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. They made my wife (who has a little fear of heights) feel safe, and even had her screaming and laughing her last few flights of the day. Highly recommend!
Matt Blasing — Google review
This was just an OK experience overall. We've been to many ziplining and adventure areas around the world and The Congo Trail is below average at best. We were staying at the RIU so this one was the better of the 2 in the area and only 20 minutes from our hotel. The best ziplining would be in the rain forest area closer to the volcano, but we weren't down for the 2 hour drive each way.
We opted for the longer tour which included ziplining, horseback riding and ATV driving. From the time we got there it was very unorganized, no one was really directing anyone where to go, there were no guides around, we all just had to figure it out on our own.
Even after the guides arrived they just sat off to the side and again we had to figure out what was happening. Some people were doing only one or two of the activities, and some were doing all, it was just very disorganized. We're used to having someone there to greet, direct, explain and make us feel welcomed and like we're having fun.
Because we were doing the horseback riding, we only got to do 3 ziplines, which was unfortunate because the ones we did were a little lame. This was not explained to us, we understood that we would be doing 10. After 3 ziplines we rode horses for what seemed like forever. It was a long and boring walk, about 60 minutes, compared to 20 minutes ziplining. Guides didn't say much of anything the entire time.
After the horseback riding we went back to the main area where no one really told us what was happening, we assumed we'd be offered the ATVing but no one did, and by that time we were over it so we left.
If you're a beginner you may enjoy this place. If you're experienced at any of the activities you'll likely find it very underwhelming.
IG @MISTAJAY1111 for more pics and info
Mista Jay — Google review
Fun trails to explore. We were able to see waterfalls, a nice beach, inland culture, howling monkeys, and the beautiful Rainforest. The tour guides are great. The store at the start of the tour had everything we needed to prepare for the tour. The restrooms were clean, and nothing was overpriced. The ATV tour guide names Jose gave us breaks at different places during the 4 hour tour & even assisted us with taking pictures throughout the tour.
J D — Google review
Awesome original zipline tour for families with young kids, beginners, first timers etc. The staff is amazing, patient and accommodating. They are what made the experience memorable and happy. We had a 3 and 4 year old with us and we were able to ride together after the trial run where the youngest was a bit uneasy, but by the end both girls asked if we can go more. It was cool to see the monkeys there too though its small, it was a fantastic day. Thank you!
Holly DW — Google review
Great park. Staff was super friendly you could tell they loved what they do on a daily basis. Zip line was awesome, safety was their number one priority if you're feeling a bit uneasy. Way to go guys. I'll definitely be returning
ttennod “Dangirl” — Google review
Lots of problems with the ATVs. Seemed super dangerous in some spots. Guides weren't as friendly as others I've worked with. Overall had a good time
Z Wagner (Incredible 'Z' Man) — Google review
Amazing experience got to do 10 zip lines, horseback riding and atv, and a little walk around the rescue all 45 mins except the rescue you can go at your own pace but you would approximately spend 10-20 minutes there. They provide water stations and there are restrooms through out some of the zip lines. And they provide a water bottle after the horseback riding. The tour guides are very nice. The bundle was 95$ but you have the option to chose other bundles if you don’t want to do them all. They also have a different activity which is the Tarzan rope. I did not do that one but you can ask about it if you’re interested.
Katherine — Google review
4.6
(729)
•
4.5
(651)
50503, Guanacaste Province, Nuevo Colón, 50503, Costa Rica
Swimming & snorkeling draw visitors to this busy beach with shade trees, bars & restaurants.
Lovely beach. We got married here at some set. It was amazing. Lots of nice places to eat. Plenty of water sports available. Lots of wild life including Howler Monkeys, Pelicans, Rays and Iguanas.
Lou Her Royal Grooviness — Google review
Beautiful beach —true meaning of rest and relaxation. Massages on the beach, some water activities and several places to enjoy a meal or a drink right on the beach. Little hotels with lots of charm and great service ¡Pura Vida!
Dennise D — Google review
Nice beach. Not the best sand around, but very decent. If you snorkel, go to the north side.
Eugene Ilchenko — Google review
Beautiful beach with lovely views. The sunsets were breathtaking. The ocean is very powerful but that makes for great waves.
Nicole — Google review
Found turtle holes this morning, dogs playing, people walking, amazing trees with character and views to die for. The restraunt is to die for. Tuna with ginger was my favorite so far, I'd eat here every night!!! I had a massage that was hard core but exactly what I needed to release the stress from traveling. It is a perfect combination at this paradise beach area!
S7Wa G — Google review
Lovely beach plus plenty of good restaurants. Filled with locals on the weekends so you get to experience the real Tico culture.
Cheryl Lippert — Google review
Hermosa is a nice enough beach, with lovely views and plenty of sun or shade at your preference. The sand is soft and dark volcanic sand. The water is warm and clear, with little to no surf. There are rocks on the south end which are suitable for snorkeling, though I don't think you'll see much. There's is a lot of beach on the north end, and even fewer people. There is a dude who will collect money from you to park at the main beach access. Just pay him and don't worry about it.
Rick Rhay — Google review
Best beach we went to in Costa Rica. It felt very bright, it was beautiful (as the name suggests), and is a great spot to surf or swim. However, I'd advise only for strong swimmers/surfers due to the waves. As someone born/raised in Hawaiian if you catch it at the right time, there's some pretty serious waves.
Brett Roberts — Google review
Wonderful and beautiful beach. Clean and relaxing. A few great restaurants on the beach.
Ben Buadu — Google review
Fantastic, secluded beach. The water was very calm and warm. I could have done without all the jet skiers ripping back and forth. Saw some stingrays, monkeys, and a huge iguana. Roberto’s restaurant had a nice happy hour, too.
Paul Nayyar — Google review
Really nice beach, not busy and clean.
Today was a bit windy so the sea was a little rough, but it was ok as it was really hot too.
You can walk more than half an hour along the beach enjoying the view.
The only negative point are the jet-sky, really too much and the drivers are not very good…
For a relaxing day could be a good choice.
Matteo Puglisi — Google review
Really nice and quiet beach! Stayed here the first week of May and I was not disappointed. Less than 30 minutes from Liberia airport as well. Sunset is amazing!
Playa Avellana is a picturesque beach that offers basic amenities and boasts a vast stretch of sand, making it a popular spot among surfers and bodyboarders. This beach is known for its impressive waves that can be enjoyed by experienced surfers. However, the road leading to this location is not in good condition and requires vehicles with high clearance to navigate efficiently.
Beautiful beach with lots of surf and fishing. Perfect for walks on the beach with smooth sand and much less rocks.
Vicente Panizo — Google review
I have been at beaches all over the world and this is one of my favourite! Just so fun. Waves rolling in but gently and predictable. You can get out a long ways. Warm clean water. Great sunsets. One of my top 10 beaches in Costa Rica!
Jason Stein — Google review
Amazing sunset
And beautiful beaches
carlos acuna — Google review
Little Hawaii is how tourist call this beautiful surfing paradise. Couple of restaurants, my favorite is La Purruja, great food and friendly environment.
Marjorie Retana — Google review
Beautiful beach, long, white sand, everyone can find its sacrifice and intimity. We love it!
Elena Lobanova — Google review
Pristine beach, isolated from the hustle of Tamarindo and more than 5 surf breaks for all levels.
Jose Rodriguez — Google review
This beach seems more for surfers than anybody else. Waves are huge and the water comes pretty far up the shore.
The main complaint I have about this place is that the road getting here is terrible. I would recommend something with a high front and rear clearance. I did it with low clearance kia, it was possible by going slow but it took pretty long.
There is parking. If you type in Playa avellana on Waze it will take you to the correct place.
M G — Google review
This place is known as little Hawaii, we didn’t understand why. The beach is rocky and hard to get in.
You have to access it thru the restaurant Lola’s, the location in the map shows the access via Hacienda Pinilla, which you need to call in advance and make a reservation.
I think they charge $35 per person for the day use of Hacienda Pinilla beach bar. We didn’t visit it since we accessed the beach via Lola’s restaurant.
The street to access the beach is rough, but most beach access on this side of the coast are bad.
Marcia Silva — Google review
I put my mothers ashes in the ocean in 2019 at this very point! It was the most wonderful, peaceful, holy experience, ever!
Elizabeth Pries — Google review
Wonderful beach with amazing surf. No need for a 4x4, there were plenty of passenger cars. Get directions to Lola’s and park in the public parking there.
The Ponderosa Adventure Park is a nature reserve that offers a safari tour featuring African wildlife. Along with the safari, visitors can enjoy activities such as zip-lining, kayaking and viewing waterfalls. While some visitors have reported disappointment with the number and condition of animals on the safari tour, paying for extra activities such as canopy tours and short kayaking trips can provide more value for money.
The experience was amazing. The highlight of our trip was Jose Miguel with the canopy team! He was so kind and knowledgeable. Thanks to him my little nephew felt brave enough to enjoy the canopy tour! Honestly the safari by itself it would do you no good. Very few animals, some of them looking sick and malnourished. However! If you do pay for the extra activities like the canopy and the short kayak tour then you would definitely get your money’s worth.
I hope the safari gets better and they comeback to what they once had. Many great and amazing animals!
Jonathan Merlo — Google review
It was an amazing experience! The whole family learned so much. We stayed the night at the park at the country club and that too was so fabulous. The hotel is just at the top of the waterfalls. Pool is great. Staff was so friendly.
Betsy Coleen Donat — Google review
Amazing place to spend the day!
I would recommend you to text them first before buying the ticket online because they can give you really good prices and packages if you talk to them first.
Everything is worth it
Ariadne Bonilla — Google review
I HIGHLY recommend coming here when visiting Costa Rica! The staff was extremely nice. Our tour guide Jeremy (I believe that’s his name) was interactive with everyone during the tour. This was my boyfriend and I first time doing a Safari Tour which exceeded our expectations 😍!
Tenneh Williams — Google review
We had a great adventure with an excellent tour guide. We feed the giraffes and zebras. There was an ostrich wanting to peck for food and the crocodiles were unbelievable. The waterfall was not grand but it has a great view of people ziplining. I would definitely recommend if in the area.
Ann Von — Google review
The park is definitely a great experience. The Safari is small but you'll definitely enjoy it. The Waterfall is small and a little lagoon forms where you can swim; the water temperature is quite nice for a hot day. The swimming pools are not big, so you may end up with overcrowding, there are 3 pools for kids and I could only see one adult pool. We paid for the buffet lunch, which wasn't a buffet lunch after all - it's typical Costa Rican dishes, but you may only choose one option, one time. Lunch here was much more expensive than any other place we've visited. The cost of the park varies based on the activities you choose to do, we chose 4 activities (Safari, Waterfall, Swimming pools and Lunch), and the cost was around $52 pp.
Erick Barrantes — Google review
A nice place to spend a family day. Options include an africa-like safari where you will be able to see and actually interact with zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and other sabana species. Safari car will take you close enough to feed them which is a really cool experience for the little ones.
Good hygiene protocols followed, several snack and hydration options along the way.
Place offers several one day packages including tours to a waterfall within the property, zip lines and more.
A nice option for a summer family weekend
Isaac Ram?rez — Google review
Fun place! Go early so you can hit everything! Easy parking. Plenty of restrooms. Nice staff!
Sharon Olson — Google review
Good concept but do not, DO NOT go on the weekends or you will spend your time waiting in lines all day! Definitely operational efficiency issues. Zip lines were mediocre. I have seen worse and better. Safari is the highlight, getting closer to the animals and feeding them. People cut in front of our line and personnel didn't ask them to go back. Definitely needs improvement. I agree that it maybe geared more towards locals and children. There is a reservation system but I don't think that they limit the number of people. There is transportation from the highway if you come by bus. If you come with backpack, you will have to zip line with it. Free Wi-Fi in public areas with pswd. I paid $55 in low season but if I paid more, it would be a waste with the weekend crowd.
Engin Sabuncu — Google review
There weren't too many activities available for a 2 year old, but our family enjoyed the Safari tour and the waterfall was quiet and peaceful. We were, however, highly disappointed that the guide did not provide any English instructions. My family was left in the dark, not knowing how to properly feed the animals or where to go. We resorted to following everyone else. It would have been nice to learn more about the animals.
The waterfall felt like a long 15 minute hike in the heat with a struggling toddler. We didn't find out until later that they could have offered to bring us there by shuttle/truck despite us asking for assistance/directions.
Our family would have enjoyed this place more if staff were more attentive and the decorations weren't so excessive/tacky (there are random statues of Shrek and Marvel characters).
Food was mediocre at best.
m hong — Google review
Lovely place, offers many activities. I came and did the Animal safari, unfortunately it was raining but we were still able to enjoy our time and feed the animals
G — Google review
Great experience! It has a bit of everything: great food, nice adventure canopy experience, a beautiful waterfall where you can bathe, gorgeous and well cared animals are and knowledgeable and kind personnel. Highly recommended.
Andrés Aguilar — Google review
If you're visiting ANYWHERE near Liberia, you NEED to come to Ponderosa. This is by far the most fun excursion I've done in Costa Rica & I've lived here almost 2 years.
The animals were incredible (and you can tell they are so loved, cared for, and treated well -- the zebras literally RUN to the safari truck because they know the people are coming with carrots!!)
The lunch was delicious, the ziplining was super fun and the waterfall is breathtaking. There are also TONS of shaded areas.
There are few things I didn't get to try (like the tubing--) but i have plans to return VERY soon & will be bringing all of my friends with me this time.
** (I highly recommend calling in advance to book your excursion as well to save $$ even though it’s already the most cost-effective excursion out there right now. They give you a reservation number and you pay upon arrival.)
Thank you Ponderosa team for an amazing experience!
Alex Kennedy — Google review
This was a great experience! Up and close encounter with zebras giraffes oxen and more. Definitely worth it. Great for kids and adults. 4 grown adults loved it!
Kari Sanborn — Google review
4.6
(5632)
•
4.5
(462)
200 mts sur del puente de el rio “El Salto, Provincia de Guanacaste, Liberia, 50101, Costa Rica
This was by far the best part of our trip to Costa Rica. Ciro and Antonio were outstanding. Ciro was so knowledgeable of all the wildlife while Antonio kept an eye out for hidden animals. When we returned the dinner was delicious. They really made this a memorable experience for my family. We can't thank you enough~
Cydney Ham — Google review
I LOVE working with Palo Verde Boat Tours. I facilitate an annual 1-week trip to Costa Rica through my my organization, Coastal Connections, and visiting Palo Verde Boat tours is the perfect last stop of our volunteer eco-tourism trip. This incredible family makes every boat tour unique and special. They will look for special birds and wildlife for you, honor special request and dietary needs at lunch, and they provide the real cultural experience of Costa Rica.
This year, the family created the most fun farm tour and planting experience for our group. The tour of the family farm was the perfect add-on to learn more about organic farming and the hard work that goes into our delicious lunch.
Kendra Cope — Google review
4 of us went there for the river boat tour and lunch. A bit out of the way to find but great people right from the start. Lots of crocodiles, iguana and birds. Francisco and Caesar were our guide and captain. Very knowledgeable and personable. Then our meal was as good as it gets and totally authentic. Highly recommended.
Gordon Derk — Google review
Thank you Manuel! Manuel, our boat driver, was an excellent spotter! An amazing boat trip seeing an incredible amount bird species, crocs, and other wild life.
We loved the restaurant! Best food on our entire trip to Costa Rica! Incredible friendly service. Great interaction with the entire family and the kids participated with the ladies cooking.
All natural food and great tasting. "BLUE ZONE" life! Gotta love it. ❤
J.R. Cohen — Google review
Our guides were phenomenal, knowledge of flora and fauna made the experience so much more than I ever expected. The only thing better than seeing all the incredible animals was getting to know Francisco Antonio Rueben and Patricia. The people were so warm and kind. Please tell Patricia hi for us if you book with them. Don’t skip on the lunch if you want a home cooked meal! I am so grateful to have been apart of this amazing experience.
Valentina Felix — Google review
The Palo Verde Boat Tour was an absolute delight! The people we encountered were incredibly kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. The lunch provided was exceptionally good, exceeding our expectations. Navigating through the stunning Palo Verde National Park, we were treated to an abundance of wildlife. Highly recommended for a memorable and insightful adventure.
Thanks to Ruben, Francisco, Cesar and Josue for everything!
Maria A. Gallego — Google review
Great experience with the family. Boat tour was amazing. The guides Antonio & Ray was very knowledgeable and pointed out the wild life. Not to be missed. The lunch served was delicious. My favourite was the pork dish.
Bob Barbagallo — Google review
We loved our boat tour and lunch! Patricia, Ramon, Francisco, and Felix took such good care of us on this first experience of Costa Rica. Their friendliness, warmth and caring is much appreciated!
We saw lots of crocodiles, playful monkeys, iguanas, a 'jesus' lizard and birds.
I admire how they source and support local families.
What a great day!
P.s. give yourself lots of time to get there if driving. Signage from Santa Cruz is non-existent but locals were always helpful along the way.
R G — Google review
Palo Verde Boat Tours is an all-around impressive company.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by a very nice man who introduced us to the other staff; offered us coffee, FRESH juice, and cookies; and showed us the restrooms. He made sure we didn’t have any allergies (for lunch) and were satisfied with the menu. He was so kind and friendly, and helped me practice conversing in Spanish without passing judgement.
We followed the tour guide to the river - maybe a 7-10 minute drive.
Our boat captain was Manuel - he was awesome! I’m not sure if he was part of this company or if he worked for the national park. Either way, you will be lucky to be on his boat if you have the chance.
Our tour guide from Palo Verde (I’m so sorry, I didn’t catch a name) was awesome as well - he spoke several languages fluently, and provided our tour in both English and French (and spoke with Manuel using Spanish!)
Manuel and our guide worked as a team to identify many animals. We saw white faced monkeys, crocodiles, bats, blue herons, a flock of snow egrets (I think?), king fishers, sand pipers, tiger herons, Jesus lizards, etc.
Manuel was great at stopping the boat motor and getting super close to the animals without disturbing them. I got so many great photos on my camera - just an old Canon Rebel T1i. The photos posted here are from an iPhone 6. You don’t need great technology to get great pictures since you get so close.
After the boat trip, we headed back to the company/restaurant for lunch.
WOW. Probably the best meal we had during our 12 day Costa Rica stay. The family atmosphere and the traditional cooking methods are humbling and inspiring.
The food was down-right amazing. Chicken, patacones, rice, beans, squash medley, traditional tortillas, salad, and a pickle/onion/jalapeño mix... all of this for just my husband and I. (Due to covid they separate each group at different tables and prepare food separately for each table). It was a plethora of food, and we left stuffed.
We ended up buying three things from their little gift shop too - they sell $10 5x7” originals from a local water color artist, one of which we bought, along with a decorated wooden gecko and mask for home decor.
Overall, it was one of our favorite experiences. If you are hesitant, you won’t regret doing the tour - make sure you pay the measly $11 for the lunch too!!
Thank you so much Palo Verde Boat Tours! We will see you again when we come back to CR.
PURA VIDA
Renee Prows — Google review
We (my girlfriend and I) loved this experience. We went during low tide and saw so many crocodiles, iguanas, birds, white faced monkeys and even some howlers. We were also lucky enough to see a pair scarlet macaws in their nest up in a tree. Would definitely recommend this if you like seeing wildlife. If however you weren’t able to see a variety of wildlife the staff has great hospitality and are very knowledgeable. The food was fantastic, maybe one of the best traditional dishes we had here. And we even got a demonstration on traditional pottery making. Recommended for all age groups!
Niko 10 — Google review
Best pleasantly surprised experience in Costa Rica. While a 9 am boat float on brackish water was not the tour we looked forward to it was great. Francisco our guide helped us see howler Monkeys, birds galore, crocodile, baby crocs and a crock eating a fish. We also saw the white faced monkeys on each side of the river claiming territory and being very vocal to each other. The add on $11 for lunch was more than worth it, they were great with dietary restrictions. To add onto the great adventure we also watched them make it possible for wheelchair bound to go and they stopped to pick up trash in the river. I was glad we chose them as the operator.
Julz Elmore — Google review
Highly recommend. We did a private boat tour for birding photography and can’t say enough about our guide Rubin and captain Cesar. They both spotted so many different birds and wildlife. The lunch following our tour was amazing all authentic dishes and the food is locally sourced. The operation is family run and they employ many that live in the small town. There’s a true love for their community. Recommend booking directly with them, very accommodating.
Ronald Frank — Google review
We had a very nice time there! Our guide and boat captain were amazingly good at spotting wild animals and we definitely recommend a private tour!
The lunch was really good as well and the pottery demo was really instructive!
Alexis Chevalier — Google review
Really fun for bird photography. The optional lunch was really great! One of the better lunches we had. These are just cell phone pics but I was able to bring my telephoto lens and tripod on the boat and got wonderful pics of many different species
April Hendrick — Google review
I have been visiting this family business for more than 20 years, when they were taking their first steps in tourism, I discovered this beautiful family that works together and with the people where they cook authentic food for you. What they give you is a meal full of love, homemade food, they also count on you on the Tempisque River on the banks of the Palo Verde National Park where you can observe an enormous amount of life In this paradisiacal place you will be able to observe a lot of wildlife such as crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys, different birds, insects, trees and much more that will leave you needing more time to continue observing.I invite you to discover on your trip to Palo Verde National Park.
roberto mora — Google review
It was a very nice boat tour. We managed to see different animals and get so cose to them. The tour guide was very nice and fun. He helped us to see alot.
Abanoub Medhat — Google review
Authentic, local family-run business that really knows the area well!!! Super friendly too, such a great experience. Really glad to have done this tour, you see so much wildlife and hear about them with the guides!
Corey Curcio — Google review
4.7
(537)
•
4.5
(392)
50302 Provincia de Guanacaste Ortega, 75 mts south of the local catholic church, 50302, Costa Rica
Long, sandy beach lined with trees, attracting visitors for surfing, walks & sunset viewing.
This beach is one of the main reasons Nosara has become a world famous destination. It is huge, wide and the consistent waves make it very popular for new surfers as well as experienced ones.
Zev Paiss — Google review
Nice sea, but not recommended for children, and honestly neither for those who are looking for some shade, as there are just few huts along the beach. And the surrounding area is covered in dust, which you are going to breath full time here. Definitely not a blue zone, not an healthy air, especially for children, and the most paradoxical thing is how overpriced all the area is. Honestly to me looks like a lot of unreasonable hype which is beneficial just for the few property managers who are riding the wave cashing in. Been traveling for 8 years in a row, circumnavigating the world, and there are places way nicer and healthier, and they are going to cost you 1/5. The best part is, you don't need to go too far from here to find them. Just sharing my experience as a long term traveler.
Manuele Migliore — Google review
Amazing, open and extensive beach. Perfect to see sunsets. It's so big, that it's never crowded. The nice thing is that this is a tourist gathering spot and there is a lot of social and mingling, within a laid and relaxed vive. Upmarket feel. Perfect for surfing. Walking distance from restaurants and hotels.
Jose Javier Marsal Gil — Google review
Super nice Black and Tan beach. A few hustlers, but not many. Sort of a yuppie family vibe. Feels pretty safe.
Anders Hanson — Google review
Stunning beach, lots of sun and space. Speak with tourists, locals and vendors while you walk the beach. There are some restaurants tucked in the trees along the beach. Great spot for horseback riding, walking, playing or sunbathing
Joanna Wankier — Google review
Fantastic place for learning to surf. The waves are popular, i.e. crowded, but with our awesome instructors it was no issue.. several huts for shade but otherwise bring an umbrella/tent to avoid the sun. Amazingly clean. Incredibly soft sand.
Heather Rombough — Google review
Spent a week at the nearby Bodhi Tree Resort and loved this serene beach! Sunset painting, sunrise bike riding, beginner surf lesson, and playing in the waves. Pura vida, good for the soul!
LindaG — Google review
Awesome beach, specially during low tide, were you can enjoy some natural pools. The magic of this beach happens with fewer people so please don't come, stay in Tamarindo or any other crowded beach 😁
C?sar Ram?rez — Google review
If you’re a surfer, this beach is perfect. Good for beginners too and Nosara has places to rent gear and teach you. Nosara is a great walkable town to check out while in the area—howler monkeys throughout.
When it’s at low tide at this beach, it is massive. Lots of room to explore, including the tide pools and rocks to the right side of the beach. It’s miles and miles long so I can’t speak for the whole space. It’s popular and a bit on the busy side especially once it’s high tide and there’s less sand to sit on, though I visited the week of Christmas which is going to be busy. It’s most busy at sunset.
Heather — Google review
It's a very nice beach mellow people and mellow waves
Alon Lahack — Google review
Kind of Boho laid back vibe. Great beach and surf. I could see staying for a couple weeks and learning how to surf.
chuck schumacher — Google review
Very pretty beach, lots of great sand and great for surfing. Shallow for quite a ways out. Easy to access by the main road with minimal walking.
Steve Clayson — Google review
We enjoyed a few days in Nosara at Olas Verdes Hotel so Playa Guiones was a short walk from the property. It's a beautiful stretch of open beach, free of beach bars and rental equipment vendors. It's a peacful place to spend at sundown watching the surfers and endless waves.
For more travel tips and recommendations, check out our blog, Ultimate Pura Vida, and make the most of your time in beautiful Costa Rica. Pura Vida 🤙
Cody Traxler — Google review
Always a great beach for swimming, sunbathing, watching sunset even some surfing. Lifeguards on duty, Olga’s right there for food and drink.
A LaCount Frank — Google review
Incredible beach, even better sunsets - you have to go!
Peter B — Google review
Beautiful beach with the warmest ocean water I've ever felt. Great surfing and snails, the sand is perfect.
nick polise — Google review
4.7
(497)
•
4.5
(1041)
Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
8
Catarata Llanos del Cortés y Poza Escondida
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
We loved this visit. It’s so unbelievably beautiful. It is very safe and has a secure parking lot that you must pass a park attendant at a stand to get into. There is a small outdoor market stall with art and treasures, no food. We visited during the weekday, and there was barely anyone there. It is all stairs to get down to the bottom, very manageable. The hike to the top of the waterfall is definitely more uneven, but just watch your step and it’s doable. The water here glitters with all the mica in it. We ended up lounging in the shade and reading, while monkeys relaxed overhead. Maybe my favorite spot on my trip.
Margot Champagne — Google review
Stunning waterfall! There are unofficial guides that will offer to take you up to see the waterfall from behind and other vantage points. We were pleasantly surprised by the experience and knowledge provided on that walk and he even took quite a few photos and videos for us. There is no fee although cash tips are highly appreciated. There is a fee to enter that can be paid via cash or credit card.
Juliana Hayworth — Google review
We had the most amazing time. Our guides Amari, Jordan and Arturo were the best. They shared so much information about the area and ensured we were safe and had the best views. They also took really good pictures for us.
Karen Taylor — Google review
Beautiful but it is a difficult trek to get down to it and back up out of it. Steps are there but odd sized, hand rails are mobile in spots. I would go again but wished we had been informed about the hiking skills required prior to heading over.
Amy Price — Google review
Saw a hand painted sign for waterfall and the road was sketchy but doable. Well worth it though. Beautiful falls and great little beach. Great place to spend a day in the water.
Rick Miller — Google review
Beautiful spot! Not too crowded on a weekday afternoon, water was so refreshing. Paid 4000 colones ($8) entry. Short gravel road to get to a rocky parking lot, any car can do it going slowly
Easy walk down to the waterfall
Beautiful spot
Marianne Simpson — Google review
Relaxing beach-like environment. Beautiful falls. Fun little hikes to and around.
Ryan Britt — Google review
Amazing waterfall, very tall , ot has bunch of small and tall falls and there is a big pool of water under the falls so you can swim.
Very short hike from the parking lot (~4min)
Omid — Google review
A nice waterfall just outside of Liberia. It was dirty from the massive downpour the day before but our kids still enjoyed it.
There were mini falls all around too. It was all just a bit muddy from the crazy rainstorm.
There was staff on hand making sure people were safe.
There is an entrance fee to help maintain the area.
Calvin Hanson (Hansons Travel) — Google review
The waterfall is nice and worth its price. The only thing I didn't really like was that the life guard forbid everything - swimming under/near the waterfall was forbidden, swimming on the side was forbidden, reaching the stones on the side was forbidden. Swimming at the very front was allowed..a bit disappointing. Everything else was great - the butterflies, the hike to the top of the waterfall, the clean showers. There was a lot of space to chill :-)
AkuZ — Google review
If going on the weekend the locals are there collecting money (donations) for parking and also ask for tips for escorting you to the lake without even telling you they are escorting for a tip. Fish actually plucked at me so I left . Seems like it’s a local band out spot too .
Jasmine Suarez — Google review
4.6
(88)
•
4.5
(536)
GP84+9CC, De posada llanos del cortés 3 kilometro camino al pueblo de llanos llegan a la Esquina de la plaza de futbol a mano derecha 2.5 kilometros Guanacaste Bagaces llanos del cortes, Provincia de Guanacaste, Bagaces, Costa Rica
National park rich in flora & fauna & covering nearly 49,000 acres, established in 1990.
Super cool river tour with our tour guide Jacob. Got to see crocodiles and monkeys...birds and lizards as well
Dave McCall — Google review
Amazing ecosystem, lots of animals- tons of different herons, migrating and local birds, crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys, and even saw a deer. It can get hot and more dry than the majority of tropical Costa Rica, but makes for a unique ecological environment. Absolutely worth checking out, only about 1.5 hours from Lake Arenal, even closer to Volcan Tenorio National Park.
Joe Nach — Google review
Great park, in total I saw three other groups of people on the day I went, I arrived first thing in the morning. I went on the first 2.1km hike which if I were you I’d pass on - very buggy and not much to see unless you stumble across wildlife. I also went to the lookout labeled #1 on their map, a short but tiring hike up. Bring lots and lots AND LOTS AND LOTS OF WATER. Hot! Also a lot of bugs so either a lot of bug spray or a long sleeve. I also did the boat tour which was cool, the guide had a great eye.
All in all I say an array of wildlife.
Derek Sutton — Google review
The approximately two-hour boat trip is highly recommended; the guide and captain go to great lengths to show you some of the birds, monkeys and crocodiles that can be found in the national park.
Charles Richard Manchester — Google review
Very interesting wetland national park. We saw a lot of wildlife and the trails were well maintained. Not very touristy (I think we were alone in the park!) Bring your bug spray and look our for crocodiles! We went all the way to the Tempisque river, such a calming hike.
Andr? Sactouris — Google review
Great park we took a tour with a boat ride and had a good time. I am not sure you would see anything without the boat. The dirt road getting there was fun and is an adventure in itself.
Tim Kelly — Google review
What else is there to say other than this place is absolutely breathtaking? An absolutely MASSIVE bird watching wetland is the central focus of this beautiful park.
It is quite a way off the beaten trail, but with boat tours available, hiking trails, and a picturesque wetland how can one pass it up?
It is also a beautiful display of the biodiversity of the area. On my way driving there, we went from a dense jungle down to a more arid landscape. The micro-biomes of changing flora are as much of a treat as the land itself.
Make sure to educate yourself of the dangers of this land though, like the Acacia Tree, which maintains a symbiotic relationship with ants and will harm you if disturbed. Or the snakes that hide in the tall grass. Be prepared! And have fun exploring this magical place!
Garret Lovins — Google review
Very nice national park in Costa Rica. We did a 2 hour boat tour down the river and really enjoyed seeing all the wildlife. The boat captain was very good and had us up close and personal with the animals. A worthwhile trip.
Jim Novak — Google review
We went here on a boat tour and it was awesome! Our tour guide Rodrigo was so knowledgeable of the area. We saw crocodiles, birds, iguanas and monkeys. Such a unique area to explore! Will definitely return.
Brittney D — Google review
It's hard to write a review of this place because in one hand you have beautiful nature, places to walk/hike around and great views; but in the other hand you have so many mosquitoes that will not leave you alone a second and will make you feel miserable! I recommend to go during January or so (when it's very windy!) so first confirm with the local station when is windy so you really enjoy it. The people is very nice, super friendly and the food is always delicious, however the infrastructure really need maintenance. The rooms and specially the bathrooms are very abandoned!
Stefanny Castro — Google review
We travelled here mid February. We were not bothered by bugs at all, but recommend wearing long pants due to prickly plants along the trail. We drove in from the west side (Highway 922) and it was about 30km of gravel roads & potholes. You absolutely need 4 wheel drive to get in here or else go on a boat tour. The park entrance does lock the gate at 4pm so plan to be leaving the park much earlier to be safe. It's about $13.50 USD to enter the park if you drive in. There are 7 hiking trails under 2km in the park. There is also a research centre that staff and volunteers stay overnight at, the washrooms are located here as well. We saw several monkey species, scarlet macaw, lizards, wild ponies and so many different kinds of birds. 4/5 stars because the roads are so bad.
Emily Pear — Google review
A great nature park with plenty of wildlife, great views and dense forest. Several trails, with lookout points, and plenty of roads throughout the park to see everything. In addition, there is a paid boat tour available at the far side of the park, with very friendly and knowledgeable staff. On our 80 minute tour we saw alligators, green herons, iguanas and monkeys. Highly recommend paying this park a visit.
Kevin Booth — Google review
The park is amazing, the tour was okay. We were only on the boys tour for about 40 minutes which wasn't enough time to see much, although we did see a fair amount. We were able to see bats, iguanas, monkeys, Jesus lizard, crocodiles, birds... The tour of the traditional (historical) sugar processing plantation was also interesting.
Traves O'Neill — Google review
4.6
(721)
•
4.5
(397)
9MM8+978, Guanacaste Province, Bagaces, Costa Rica
The Samara Info Center folks are the best, Chris and Brenda are helpful, knowledgeable and can get you the most accurate information or booking for your trip to Costa Rica. My family has used their services for 7 years now and the service has been exceptional. Never a fee for their services and they are fast and efficient. By all means reach out to them for info on places to stay, airport shuttles, adventures and places to eat and explore, even car rentals!
angus mackie — Google review
When it’s time to leave a wonderful vacation the only way to do it is with a fabulous ride to the airport! I can’t say enough positive things about Brenda and Samara Info Center. They made everything so easy when I booked my ride from Samara to the Liberia Airport. My driver Michael was so kind. He made sure I was comfortable the whole time asking if I needed water or to stop for a bathroom. As an extra bonus, he was a great tour guide telling me about things as we drove through them on the way to the airport! I will always use Brenda and Samara Info Center from here on out when I visit Costa Rica!
Jennifer Greene — Google review
When we got a late start planning our Costa Rica trip, Brenda saved the day by finding lodging, tours and transport. The operators she chose were all very good. Brenda supported us while in CR by confirming everything the day prior so we had no issues. She was available anytime by phone to answer our questions and provide advice. Brenda's help made our travels worry free and relaxing. I highly recommend working with Samara Info Center!!
Susan Balcom — Google review
Brenda and her crackerjack team at Samara Info Center effectively handled all our local transport needs for a wedding party of 20+ people. She and her team consistently went above and beyond our expectations in every way, with airport transfers, activities bookings, and even renting an electric golf cart for zipping around between Samara and Carrillo. Brenda's English is flawless and her customer service is impeccable. And she is always super-nice and very communicative. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
Brant Reiter — Google review
Wow. I cannot recommend this highly enough (or Brenda who is the woman who helped us repeatedly throughout our 5 week stay). When we first arrived in Samara there was no shortage of people to give advice and connect us with services, however, all of these involved a significant up-charge (I did my own research for a week on bike rental prices). The Samara Info Center did not have an up-charge, responded on What'sApp right away, and even helped us out of a tight spot at the end of our trip. Brenda helped us with the following things (and more):
- renting bikes AND having them delivered to our place
- advice from a local tour operator on the safety of a waterfall hike (we took ourselves to the waterfall, which we might not have felt comfortable doing without advice)
- scheduling a turtle nesting tour (twice!)
- scheduling a last-minute airport transfer when our driver bailed on us the morning of the flight (WOW)
Please use the link to tip at the end of your stay, Brenda was absolutely wonderful! THANK YOU
Lauren Foster — Google review
Brenda helped us out in 2021 when we visited Samara. We have been back to Costa Rica twice since and Brenda was very helpful for us even when visiting other areas. She is quick to book activities anywhere in the country. We know we can always count on her if plans change. We always receive a quick response and know she will take care of the details for us. Thanks for all your help Brenda!
Kerry Bill — Google review
A friend recommended Samara Info Center to me, and I'm glad I listened. Brenda was quick to arrange for the drop-off of two bicycles at our hotel, as well as the pick-up with the renters. Communicating with Brenda via WhatsApp was a breeze, as she's quick to respond! I'll definitely be doing more business with the Samara Info Center during out next trip!
Val?rie J. — Google review
I used Sámara Infocenter to arrange transportation to and from Liberia Airport. They made everything so easy! Communication was great and everything was smooth. 100% recommend them and will be using them again next year!
M Westman — Google review
We booked a river kayak trip and even made some special requests, very high maintenance customers here. The Samara Info Center made it happen for us and set us up with a gorgeous tour, one for the memory books!
Kristy Kibler — Google review
Bee was extremely helpful while my wife and I traveled to Samara for our first time. From setting up a ride from and to the airport, renting a vehicle and booking various tours, Bee was the best! Thank you so much for helping make this a wonderful vacation!
bheron01 — Google review
They were great! Anything I needed was just a Whatsapp message away. Responsive, helpful, offered great suggestions and advice, prices are the same as what you would pay going directly, but you get the added service and local contact. Highly recommend.
Bee, in particular, is a GREAT advocate for Samara Info, Center. She's got tons of helpful hints and knows just about everything there is to know about Samara. Highly recommend using her for your tour needs.
David Wilens — Google review
I love having access to Brenda’s wonderful advice for Samara and environs over the last six years. She is knowledgeable and honest. My go to. She deserves your trust and support.
Marilyn Dallman — Google review
Second time I have used Samara Information Center. This trip I set up round trip private transfers and a macaw tour with Bee. Everything was perfect and Bee is always available via WhatsApp if you need any help. They no longer have a physical office but are super easy to contact.
Craig Silva — Google review
Brenda was incredibly helpful in assisting me to organize a yoga retreat in the area of Samara. She helped the participants secure transportation to and from the airport, find accommodation in town before and after the retreat, and assisted them in planning their trip to the cloud forest. She was responsive to their inquiries and all commented how they felt well taken care of. Brenda offers an unparalleled service to visitors to this area.
Suzanne T.
Victoria, BC, Canada
Suzanne Tremblay — Google review
Feb 2024 in Samara. It's good to know that there are people like Brenda and her company who are helpful and take all the stress out of booking activities outside ones home country. And most importantly, they provide great service! Thank you
Rod MacDonald — Google review
Samara info center is a life saver! I messaged them before my trip and they helped me with every detail I had questions about. They helped me reserve a car from the airport, shuttle to the airport, they helped me book various tours, and they respond VERY quickly (within minutes)! Highly reliable and very easy to work/coordinate with. Thank you so much!
Samara Beach is a popular beach destination with a horseshoe shape, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers various amenities such as nearby shops and restaurants catering to tourists. It is important to note that some freelance parking personnel may ask visitors for a small fee to use their service. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at places like La Casita de Mr Wagner or drinks at the restaurant with access to the beach offering stunning views of the sunset.
Beautiful beach, very long. The northern portion is easier for swimming, in the southern portion waves are bigger and better for surfing.
Louise Brazeau Wong — Google review
Amazing place for a short or even long vacation. I was living in Sàmara and I had the best times. I could definitely live there.
The beach is great, the people are so lovely, the village is small but very nice.
You find delicious restaurants or homemade food - it’s a perfect surfing spot for beginners, for intermediates in the surroundings also - great hiking spots - waterfalls nearby - the best sunsets - island life on isla chora :) - full moon parties - what else? :) I think Sàmara is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been!!!! ❤️❤️
Carolin Pfeifer — Google review
Beautiful beach! Such a large beach that you will have no problem finding a spot away from people. So many little restaurants along the beach. Small park next to the police station has freshwater showers. If you need to escape the sun or heat there are quite a few trees that line the beach to set up under. Saw surfers and horses.
Cee Dupree — Google review
This beach was a great find. It is pretty touristy so be warned if you are looking for a more local-like atmosphere. There are also those freelance parking guys walking around so you might have to pay a couple hundred colones to buy some peace. We ate at La Casita de Mr Wagner and it was delicious. We also drinks at the restaurant with beach access and blue umbrellas directly across from that food courts. My friend and I both agreed they were the best versions of each drink that we had ever had (mojito and piña colada). What a good place and pretty good location. We drove from Monteverde no problem.
Cassidy Crawford — Google review
I almost don’t want to write a positive review because I love Playa Samara so much, I’m dreading some day it will lose it’s magical, small, locally-owned, bohemian beach appeal. The waves are great for surfing newbies to intermediates, playing in the sand or drinking a tropical beverage from one of the nice restaurants right on the beach. I ❤️ Samara 🏝️
Christine Larson — Google review
Lovely not too busy beach and town. It has an small island and a rock/coral break to protect the bay from large waves. There's still waves good enough to work on your surf board skills. Lots of restaurants and accommodations for vacations. Many expats live there.
Barefoot mart — Google review
Fantastic beach, very clean, decent amount of parking. Very kid friendly. Great sunsets.
Rajeshkumar Janarthanan — Google review
Great mix between tropical paradise, chill atmosphere yet very convenient with nice restaurants and a bit of shopping.
Karsten Lyby — Google review
Very beautiful. Less crowded than other beach towns like Tamarindo. Very warm water. Worth the drive.
Kay W — Google review
A nice and quiet beach, great for walking, lots of little beach restaurants. Watch out for jellyfish in the waters.
Alice O C — Google review
Fun beach with quite a few restaurants. Town is right near the beach. Walk the entire length of the beach during low tide. Occasional wild horses. Some decent fishing and shells.
Katy Stevens — Google review
Lovely beach with a relaxing atmosphere. Lots of nice bars and restaurants around as well.
Lisa Krauss — Google review
In December the water is really nice and warm but not like a bath water so it's refreshing. Easy waves so you are able to swim or just float. I visited for the day and found an area under some trees with shade to sit on a towel. It looked like you could rent chairs and boogie boards on the beach. Not crowded on a Monday.
Chad — Google review
My favorite beach, not too busy, great selection of restaurants lining the beach, waves not too big that you can enjoy the water.
Glenn Bartlett — Google review
The water is really nice and you are able to swim . The water is warm . But there should be more sitting areas .bring a towel to sit on the floor . There are couple of stores and restaurants around the area .we stayed the resort near we tried to walk but it was unsafe the roads are to narrow and grass is on slant. Will recommend ask the resort to book a taxi for your travel there . It cost us $10 to get there .
Garthigga Yoganathan — Google review
Beautiful, vibrant, and spacious beach with a good number of people—not overly crowded. Many surf rental shops right by the beach, as well as beachside restaurants/bars. Volleyball and soccer fields available. A safe beach, perfect for beginner surfers and boogie boarding.
AnotherPerspective — Google review
9% as popular as Arenal Volcano National Park
1 hour off the main route, 33% of way to Jaco
12
Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio
National park
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Multiple volcanic peaks & craters in a national park, plus a famous light-blue river.
Overall a great experience. The entry fee was $12 per person if I remember correctly.
The park consists of approximately 3km out and 3km back trail. There are several important stops such as the waterfall which requires that you decend several hundred steps (then climb back to resume the trail) which is worth the view. When you get to the bottom of the stairs, you realize it was worthy the effort.
Towards the end of the trail, there is a point where two separate bodies of water mix to create the blue color the river is known for.
During our walk, we saw a bunch of wildlife including birds, wild turkeys, and a pit viper snake.
Overall 5-stars. I would definitely visit this place again.
Idris Guven — Google review
It was a long wait to get into the park after arriving around 9am. There was no shade and got quite hot standing in the sun. They only let so many people in at a time, which is nice for the hike not to get too crowded. The hike was pretty strenuous and parts were slippery. Didn’t see the volcano top, but the waterfall and rivers were a beautiful sight to see. We saw quite a bit of wildlife while on the tour too.
dominique cupa — Google review
Beautiful National Park. If you’re looking to go Rio Celeste Waterfalls with the blue water, make sure to come here. The Google Map stop showing Rio Celeste is incorrect - a few cars were lost in this journey and ended up here at the park.
Highly recommend purchasing tickets and booking time slot in advance. I would say the steps are more tolerable than La Fortuna waterfalls - it’s not as intense but a solid workout regardless.
You are not allowed to swim in the park, but the bridge up, you will see a spot to get in the water and cool off.
Zachariah Cherian — Google review
Make sure you go early. Rio Celeste is a must see but to get there you hike in about 1km then walk down a hundred or so stairs. After seeing the waterfall you can walk another 2km into the park which is definitely worth doing. You will eventually come to the end of the trail where the rivers mix and will then have to walk the 3km back out along the same trail. It gets very very busy by 10am.
Christopher Coady — Google review
Definitely worth the hike! And you must go all the way to the end to see the mixing of two waters. The waterfall is of course amazing but seeing two rivers mix like that was special. We were lucky because there were no rain before so to the water so very blue! Where your hiking shoes and be prepared to climb some stairs!
Jan Kocjan — Google review
The hikes are unmissable. We learned so much about Arenal and the nature is impressive. Don’t miss it!
Catarina Terenas — Google review
Fun hikes, I saw people of all ages walking the trails. It’s located in the cloud forest. The waterfall and the blue waters are so special, the locals tell the story that when God was painting the sky, he dipped the paint brush in this waters and that’s how the river got its color 💙🙂. There’s a lot to see… animals, birds, nature, the union of two rivers where the blue color waters are born.
There are some restaurants and stores outside the National park to get a refreshing natural juice after the hikes and also you can book other activities to do around there.
Marina — Google review
A breathtaking hike with a unique waterfall!
We saw lots of wildlife there and took beautiful pictures. In the rainy season it’s not crowded at all. Unfortunately I got stung by a bee there, but the staff was very helpful and kind and offered to treat it.
Keep in mind that you need an online-reservation before you can enter, which you can do right in front of the park but I would recommend to do it before that, especially if you travel during high season.
Milla Koch — Google review
The park is really beautiful we maintained they do not let food, cigarettes, vapes etc inside there’s a checkpoint for every bag so avoid those items. The trail to go to the waterfall is paved with stairs.
Outside the park there’s many shops to purchase drinks, food or souvenirs. I recommend getting there early since the park closes at 4pm and last admission is at 2pm.
You can’t go for a swim so be aware of that before getting to the park there’s a bridge and below there you can stop for a swim many locals and tourists.
Rameci Rivera — Google review
The official parking lot at the bottom of the hill is operated by the Red Cross and much easier than trying to park on the side of the road (the road is narrow and we saw two cars that had been hit). The shuttle can be slow.
Unfortunately the bridge was closed when we were there but we had an enjoyable walk non the less.
Animals can be hard to spot due to the dense forest but easy to hear.
The trails can be very muddy so be prepared.
Jeff Detmold — Google review
So worth the drive out to this place! We didn't end up going with a guided tour but we didn't end up needing one! Even though it was a cloudy day and had rained heavily for a few days the waterfall was still beyond gorgeous! Not as blue as the photos during the winter but still worth it none the less. WEAR GOOD SHOES! A portion of the path is paved but the many never ending steps down the the water fall are large and slippery. It is worth it to continue on with the hike to the end as well! You get to see where two rivers meet and where some natural minerals have created a almost middle line between both coloring rivers. Hike the whole thing if you go! You won't regret it!
Mandie — Google review
Visited a few days ago and it was an amazing experience. The whole round trip hike took my husband and I about 2.5hrs. It was well worth it for the views we got. There’s plenty of parking and there’s also a restaurant and local people selling fruits and coconut juice. I will say, the bathrooms were a little jank, but nothing too bad. There are many stairs to get to the waterfall, but there are lots of spots you can stop at along the way to take a breather. One of the locals there told us that the water doesn’t look as blue when it rains, so def try to go on day there’s no rain on the forecast. Although it was hot, you can’t feel it very much on the hike since you’re covered by all the foliage. I recommend going to the end of the hike so you can see the bubbling spots and the end where the two different colored rivers meet. You can’t go in the water like you’re able to at Arenal waterfall, however there is a pot outside of the park at you’re allowed to go into the beautiful blue water, search Tenorio free pool.
Elda — Google review
The main attraction of this national park is the famous waterfall. At times it's a beautiful bright blue color. During periods of heavy rainfall, the water turns muddy and is no longer blue. That's the condition it was in when I visited, but the sheer power and size of the waterfall was impressive to observe, even if the color wasn't perfect.
As many of the other reviews state, the hike to the waterfall is relatively short, but the terrain is challenging. Expect many rocks, lots of mud, and slippery terrain.
This is a national park, and the fact that you're in a rainforest needs to be respected. We went with a guide, and they explained very clearly that there are vipers and other venomous snakes present, poisonous frogs, and wild monkeys that can attack in packs of 10+ if you have food they want. You really do need to be careful, as we encountered a baby viper and a pack of monkeys during the hike, just like the guides predicted. This is not a bad thing. In fact, it speaks to how well the habitat is maintained.
I heard some guides and locals talking about how this waterfall is in the top 3 most visited sites in Costa Rica, and the sheer number of tourists visiting it is now overwhelming. 5 years ago, it was a much quieter park. Something to note if you visited a whole ago and expect it to be similar now - it is far more crowded.
Noah G — Google review
Rio Celeste is a must see… If there hasn’t been much rain. Too much rain dulls the beautiful blue colors of this river. The paths are well maintained but you should be in good physical condition to manage the steep paths. I highly suggest bringing a walking stick or two. A guide is not necessary, but you will see more wildlife if you hire one.
Michelle Ressell (Fiona3D) — Google review
The reviews for this amazing waterfall were so confusing. The booking process as well. But the trail and waterfalls were absolutely amazing. We saw an eyelash viper along the trail. Probably the most beautiful waterfall I’ve seen. Doable with a 4 and 8 year old if you just want to see the falls. I’ve been around a lot of CR and believe me you don’t have want to miss this if you have the chance! Pura Vida!
Ray Erins — Google review
You can only buy tickets online through SINAC Costa Rica website. You have to create an account to buy tickets & choose time of entry. We chose the first entry 8-8:40 A.M. We didn’t get a guide as we wanted to do the hike at our own pace…the trails are clearly marked with signage that explains the attractions. We completed the hike in 4 hours. Rating the hike as moderate. The park was beautiful & well maintained. We hiked different types of trails; paved paths, bridges, rocky trails, tree roots & some mud. The 250 stairs down to the waterfall are in good shape and dry as we went in February. The waterfall was as mesmerizing as I anticipated. The local legend story & the science behind the milky blue colour are equally fascinating. Expect rain in the rainforest…it rained on us for the first half hour. Use the bathroom before the hike as there are none inside the park…It would be nice if there’s one. Tips: Bring a light rain jacket, water & proper footwear. Parking is 2000 crc. Bags will be inspected at the park entrance. No cigarettes, vapes, single use plastics, food…
May E — Google review
Lovely experience. A true wonder. We did the whole hike and everything was perfect. We hiked it without a guide and glad we did it that way. We spent as much time as we wanted in each spot. Wear hiking shoes, poles were very helpful. Have a pan go for drizzle or rain. Go early am. Make reservations in advance. Number of people on the trail is very well controlled. 10 out of 10 experience!
Sunshine A — Google review
What a beautiful park.
This is the best bang for your buck when it comes to the park admission fee.
The trail is well maintained and fairly easy to walk. There are some steep sections on the way that may be hard depending on the shape you are in. The way back is downhill.
We didn't see any wildlife, unfortunately, and regret not hiring a guide.
This is a must-see.
You are not allowed to go in the beautiful water, but at about 1 km down the road, you will cross a small bridge.
That's the spot where you can go for a dip.
During rain or just after a rainfall, it would be a muddy trail, and likely, the water would be too polluted to render its natural beauty.
Don't miss this trail.
PS: we rented a scooter and rode from La Fortuna. Thankfully, we had clear skies, and everything was dry. I'm an experienced rider, so it wasn't too bad on the scooter.
However, it was very uncomfortable for my wife in the back.
The experience was priceless, though.
Julio Hernandez — Google review
Such an amazing area with Rio Celeste. We saw lots of birds, snacks, the Costa Rican raccoon, monkeys, and the cool waterfall. The hike is moderately challenging with a steep incline on the way in. There are about 200 steps down to the platform for the waterfalls. You can't swim there. There mosquitoes. So, where bug spray and long pants and shirt.
Jessica Long — Google review
we went in December and Just missed the rain as it started right after we hiked out! Perfect timing. I heard if it rains before you go, the water may be brown, but luckily for us it was very blue. The hike to the fall was beautiful. The funny thing is (and now I am learning its like this everywhere where instagram has made famous) is that there was a line to get down the stairs to the fall because everyone was getting their picture taken. But overall it was a nice day. Just remember to book you pass to enter BEFORE you get there online! It was a hassle to do once we got there because we did not do it ahead of time.
Shanna Sottosanto — Google review
Awesome hike! Go do it! Bring water and hit the earliest enterance by reservation. If you like the stair master at the gym this is for you 😀
Absolutely amazing! Let me be clear, I do not like the fact that those places exist, because it does mean that animals get hurt.
However, this place tries their absolute best to rehabilitate them, if possible. We had a tour with Ester and she has been working in this place for 20 years. She knew all animals and all stories behind them.
This organization, together with 2 other ones in Costa Rica, has an international certificate related to animal sanctuaries (GFAS).
Highly recommended to visit and support them to help those animals which can be rescued!
Kevin Bogaarts — Google review
Nice rescue center, very easy access off the highway. Large natural enclosures and different areas to visit. Great for kids, easy to navigate and washrooms are never far. It's always a bit sad to see the big cats behind bars but the info at each animal's enclosure gives context about why they are there. During our visit, we saw a couple of new enclosures being built, which was encouraging. Definitely worth a visit and it's a valuable cause to support.
A tip: wear long pants/sleeves and use bug spray... there are a lot of mosquitoes.
Flavia Barandiaran — Google review
This place was very neat. We stopped ok the way back to Nicaragua. There aren't a lot of animals, but the price was fair and it looks like they are doing a good job of taking care of them. It was an enjoyable afternoon.
Michelle Van Heiningen — Google review
This sanctuary is doing incredible, thoughtful work to help the animals of Cañas and surrounding areas. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing the tragic stories of the animals you'll meet and the exciting stories of animals they were able to rehabilitate and re-release back to the wild. Highly recommend!!!
Maggie G — Google review
Good place to stop when driving from Liberia to La Fortuna. Took us about an hour to walk around. Signs tell why/where each animal was captured. We saw pumas, jaguars, jaguarundies, deer, parrots, toucans, several kinds of monkeys, rabbits, a sloth, etc. My daughter LOVED the green parrots that would say hola, hello, and even would repeat her name and mimic my laugh. We're glad they're rescuing these animals and enjoyed seeing them even if they were now in captivity. We liked supporting a good cause. Parking lot has a worker watching it.
Denise Brown — Google review
A small little rescue centre that is on the main highway in Liberia, Costa Rica. It isn't too expensive and is definitely worth the visit if you like animals. All of the animals are rescues that cannot be re habilitated to the wild due to either injury or growing up in captivity. I'd recommend going during a cooler time of the day as the animals rest when it is too hot.
Noah Ceraldi — Google review
I highly can recommend to anyone who have the possibility to come here to do it!
The work what the people are doing here is so important and amazing and I learnt a lot during my visit.
Its really heartbreaking to see how cruel human can be, but good to know there are people who wants to do better and take care about these animal. If you can do, please donate to them🙏🏻
D?ra Borgulya — Google review
We were able to book a combination tour through Nacho tours which included a visit to Llanos de Cortez as well as Las Pumas which is just a short 20 minute drive from the waterfall. Nacho also set us up with a guide, Virginia, to take us around Las Pumas. Virginia took us on an excellent tour of Las Pumas, talking to us about the animals and the way Las Pumas rehabilitates and releases animals. We had tons of fun, getting the opportunity to see monkeys, jaguars, Pumas, ocelots, and many more. Definitely recommend supporting Las Pumas- the first rescue center in Costa Rica.
Laine Heidman — Google review
Beautiful place..Is amazing what they are doing!
Is small but if you love animals you can stay around from r a while to observe them..I really admire these people protecting and taking care of them .,They have Pumas,but i have no pictures of them because they were sleeping quietly..And that means the place is peaceful for them
Lilliana Fonseca — Google review
Such a great stop midway between Arenal and Guanacaste. The animals were beautiful, there were a lot of them and it wasn't a sad place like we had feared at first. It's actually really a beautiful environment that these animals, who otherwise wouldn't have made it, live in.
Alex Genovese — Google review
We came during feeding time and it was awesome watching the cats attack the meat. I also appreciated how the park educated people against taking in wild animals as pets.
Ashley Hostetter — Google review
Very good and very enjoyable, they are doing good for the animals.
Quite small so you only need around 45 minutes nothing more to see all the rescued animals.
5/5! Would come back next time I’m here.
Jason Murray — Google review
Awesome for the price! Monkeys, cats, birds, even other wildlife stopping by to visit. Don't forget the donation boxes!
We went early, so there was just us and one other family. The staff members were super friensly and working hard. Two members made it a point to attend the jaguars with treats qhen our group made it to that side, making sire the kids really got to see and learn more. Another staff member even noticed i passed by, not finding the snoozing sloth, to point him out! Very sweet.
V Alexander — Google review
A quiet and small animal rescue sanctuary. Seems like they put a lot of effort into rehabilitating animals and keep the ones that aren’t suitable for reintroduction to the wild. Animals seemed content and in good condition. The enclosures were clean and provided adequate space and enrichment for each of the species. Definitely worth a visit if you want to see many examples of native fauna.
Kristin Denryter — Google review
This is a small rescue center. It’s just the right size to enjoy your visit. My husband was able to use his electric / motorized scooter / wheelchair fairly easy on the path. They even share written information on the reason certain animals made it to the rescue center and why they are there. Nice place to take the children to. Some of the local schools also take field trips here. The bathrooms were very clean. The place is nicely shaded as well.
Tinnie Clifton — Google review
A great place to see wildlife kept in a very ethical and thoughtful way. Most animals they take in get rehabilitated and released, but those that cannot for health reasons stay and are wonderful to see. This was a very worthwhile stop between Rincon and Arenal!
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges is a verdant nature reserve that offers numerous adventure tours. The park boasts of 16 bridges, ranging from eight to 98 meters long, along with a scenic lake. These hanging bridges take you up high in the rainforest canopy, providing an excellent view of the surroundings and wildlife that are not easily observable from below. Visitors have the opportunity to spot birds and other animals while exploring this lush jungle environment.
Absolutely worth the price! We spent a good 2 hours slowly enjoying the scenery, and although you sometimes have to wait to get onto the hanging bridges, there's always something to look at. We went without a guide and saw plenty of wildlife, but we were glad to overhear some groups to spot incredible little creatures! The restaurant then offers great food and drinks with a view of Arenal if you need to relax after your little adventure. Totally recommend this place!
Izzy Laurin — Google review
A wonderful tour. Definitely book a guide who knows what they’re doing. Our guide knew every animal along the way and spotted things we would’ve easily missed.
From toucans to vipers and bats to unique plants, our guide picked them all out and highlighted them for us to see.
We even saw a poison dart frog!
Well worth the visit. Even if you hate heights as much as I do. It was a great experience overall.
Michael Teicheira — Google review
WOW, we had been told that the hanging bridges were okay but not wonderful. We disagree. It was a fun adventure with many animals to see. We went in the afternoon and saw 2 different vipers, spider monkeys, squirrels, raccoon like critters, different birds, beautiful views of Volcan Arenal, not to mention the swinging bridges. Some children may not like it so much if they are not interested in animals.
Our guide, Alonso C. from Jacamara Tours was excellent. He gave the group options as we went along the trail. He was able to spot a variety of animals and told us a lot of information not only about the animals but also many of the plants too.
Jean Robinson — Google review
This is a worthwhile excursion! The preserve is breathtakingly beautiful & very well maintained. The only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 is because half the park was closed off for maintenance. It seems they should offer a reduced price ticket or maybe a voucher for a drink from the restaurant if patrons are paying full price for a ticket, but not able to see the full park.
Note: We did a self guided tour & saw wildlife, but if I could do it again I would do a guided tour.
Shana Solis — Google review
I reserved the entrance tickets with a tour guide online. Highly recommend to book it a few days in advance to get the time slot you want. It's best to go early to enjoy a cooler walk. Our group was 8 people so two families.
In general, it's a one time kinda thing for us. The walk was about 2.5 hours. So not recommend for little kids. They will get tired and cranky. Plus to be honest it was hard to see the animals. The animals were fast moving and even with the telescope you can't see very much . We saw a ball of hair which was the slot. We did see the snake very clearly. And some monkey up top. The park was crowded. One group bump into the next, the tour guide helps each other to point out and locate the animals they saw. There was a bit of traffic waiting to cross the hanging bridge.
Trang Thu — Google review
I highly recommend this experience. It's a longer walk than I expected. A nice full experience with beautiful views of Arenal volcano. If you haven't seen enough animals in Costa Rica yet, pay the extra for a tour because the guides will find things you never could. The bridges feel safe and the place is well made. It is not accessible. Dirt road to get there. Plan 2 hours minimum but 3 is better.
Susan LeBlanc — Google review
Very enjoyable two hours. Lots of beautiful flowers and jungle animals. Walkways and bridges are well maintained and clean. The walk didn’t feel crowded and most of our two hour walk was by ourselves.
We visited the waterfall which was well worth the extra time and distance.
We felt that this activity was well worth the price. Good exercise too…. The total distance without shortcuts and the waterfall was just over two miles(3.4km).
Daniel Wylie — Google review
This is a magical place. The reason why I gave it 4 start and not 5 is because I do think it is overpriced. I went on august 2023 with my son and I paid $51 for both of us. We walked the loop in about and hour and a half and that was it. Once again, I do want to emphasize that this place is beautiful and it is amazing. The views are incredible and the bridges are super cool. On top of that all the employees that I spoke to were very friendly and helpful. As I wrote earlier, my 4 star rating is because of the steep fee. I do recommend the place even if it pours rain on you like it did on us.
Juan Pablo Naranjo — Google review
Enjoyed the walk and views. Heard monkeys which was fun. Trails are very nice and maintained. 10/23/2023 some bridges are under construction. Saw some wildlife. It did rain but the coverage from the trees helped a lot to keep us somewhat dry. Picnic areas, pack a lunch and enjoy the jungle. Close toe shoes. For the price extend your stay and plan to stay for a half day. Relax and enjoy don’t rush! @$26 each plus tax. I think the total for two was $62 US
Lisa Decker — Google review
We did the Natural History guided tour and it was amazing! Everyone enjoyed it from 5 to 50 years old. Our guide was Donald, we saw numerous animals in their natural habitat, we would have never spotted on our own. Highly recommended. The park is very well taken care off, restrooms available, restaurants, ample parking. Would deffianetly recommend it to anyone! The park is shaded, despite a sunny day, it was a very pleasant walk. Please don't skip this one! You can hike on your own, or you can hike with a guide.
Marianna Paulla Kuper — Google review
Beautiful walk through the rain forest and the hanging bridges were great fun.
We did not take the guided tour. Only 4 stars as a guide was showing a frog to his group and told my kid no as we weren't park of the group.
Didn't really see many creatures however a lovely hike.
Kelle Cross — Google review
Totally worth the price! We had such a great time! We saw monkeys, coatis, and cool birds. We came upon a group looking at a sloth, but it moved deeper into the branches, so we didn't get to see it. We chose to go without a guide, and in my opinion, it was still just as enjoyable. I didn't feel like I missed out on anything. The trail is really well maintained. The facilities at the trailhead were clean. To be honest, they were some of the nicest public bathrooms we've seen... even in the States and Europe. There are no bathrooms or water on the trail. They have an accessible trail in the park for those who need assistance. We brought our own binoculars and lots of water. We could have brought more water, so don't underestimate how much water you'll drink. We came at 9, but wished we had come earlier because I think we would have seen more wildlife. We took our time walking around, so it took about 3 hours.
Emily Sanders — Google review
We enjoyed not having a tour guide and going at our own pace. Beautiful scenery and surroundings. If we had a tour guide, we would have had more wildlife that we could have seen through a telescope,but we had experienced that on other tours
Not handicap friendly
Family friendly
Worth it
You have "bail out" spots if you don't want to commit to the entire loop
Karen Williamson — Google review
So glad we decided to do this hike even though there were storm clouds and light rain. We debated hiring a guide, but decided against it because of reviews here. We ended up catching up with a group who had a guide and they took us right in! The best part was, we saw what we needed to see with the other group’s guide, but we could break off and go explore on our own without a group slowing us down. There’s a really nice trail before one of the bridges that takes you to a waterfall (we would’ve missed it if with a guide). We saw many monkeys in the trees! The grounds are gorgeous, the bridges exhilarating, and the view of the volcano at the end was stunning! Great last minute decision. The rain made the experience even more magical. There’s enough tree cover that we really didn’t get wet.
Noelle Bradburn — Google review
A nice hike on well paved pathways. The area is beautiful but we did not see many animals as we had 10AM reservations. We found out later that you need to arrive/have reservations at opening to see the most wildlife. None of the trails are strenuous if you’re in decent shape. Be aware, the road into the park is steep.
Greg Bennett — Google review
Loved this experience! Super cool to walk along suspension bridges. I am personally afraid of heights, but this felt very safe and I ended up really having fun. There are some incredible views on the bridges. Highly recommend. This seems more like a family-friendly place and less for solo travelers (like me) but regardless, I had a great time:)
Maya Churi — Google review
I visited late morning during the week and it was pretty empty on the trail which was nice. I didn't book a guide, just had a walk on my own. I did bump into 3 other groups with guides and asked what they were looking at. Twice it was a snake. For me, I am not disappointed missing out on that. The other time, I didn't have to ask because I could hear the guide going on and on about a fern. On my own I spotted a toucan, so that was very nearly worth the price of admission. But I still feel like it was too expensive at $30 something dollars just for me to take a hike. The hanging bridges aspect was "meh". Didn't see much from above. So maybe it is more amazing with a guide, but I am sure it takes longer and I am not convinced it is that much more amazing.
S H — Google review
Fun activity, bridges are high up and can be difficult to walk on with others on the bridge, but felt stable.
Tours seemed to go slow, but I walk with purpose. I passed 4 tours on my way despite enjoying the scenery.
Great pics of Arenal on a clear day.
Cassidy Dalton — Google review
We opted for a guided tour and it was well with the extra $32 (for the two of us). Julio was an amazing guide and told us all about the area and the wildlife... But more importantly spotted the animals and pointed them out so we could see and take photos. How he spotted them I don't know, but without his direction it would have just been a nice walk, without seeing anything. Has to be a must if you're in the area.
Ally Fairgrieve — Google review
We chose the guided tours and are so happy we did. Gabby, our guide spotted so much wildlife. Her superpower is great hearing and eyesight. Her knowledge of the jungle and the wildlife with in was astounding. Had we taken the tour without a guide we would not have seen the wildlife we did. My husband is scared of heights, but it was me that was whimpering! They are very safe to cross and well worth the three hour tour.
Zoe Tremblay — Google review
We visited the hanging bridges on a Tuesday midday. It was not too busy. Beautiful scenery and very enjoyable hike through the jungle, the hanging bridges are beautiful and little scary to walk through, but worth it. Lots of wildlife, we got to see yellow snake 🐍 , monkey 🙈 heard many monkeys from far we didn’t get to see them all. Call and reserve your spot ahead a time since they sell out. Staff is very friendly and fun. We called them same day and was able to arrange it. Must see when you visit the area.
Mónika Molnár — Google review
This park was better than I expected, much bigger, denser forest, not overly touristy. We went at 8am and there was almost no one there. It was pouring rain for most of the 1.5 hours we spent there, but it was expected. We didn’t see a great variety of animals but it was quiet and peaceful and we thoroughly enjoyed our time spent there.
Emily Lammers — Google review
We had a really amazing time walking through the jungle with our guide Edgar. He was extremely knowledgable about both local plants and animals, and was able to show us families of howler monkeys, multiple kinds of vipers, and a variety of rare birds- some of which he only sees every two or so weeks. He really emphasized the ecological diversity of the forest and the way each plant and animal plays a specific yet equally important role in the overall ecosystem.
And of course, the hanging bridges were pretty incredible. I would say this park is a absolute must see if you’re staying in La Fortuna.
Hank — Google review
Beautiful scenery and park. The lunch/food situation was extremely confusing and disappointing. We paid for lunch in advance but there was no buffet as advertised. We had a wrist band for our meal but the instructions were totally unclear has to how to actually get our food. We ended up having to order from a menu and then 3 or 4 tables that arrived after us were served before us. We were very hungry and frustrated. The chicken with rice had only a few small bits of shredded chicken.
Michael Lynch — Google review
We had a phenomenal time at the hanging bridges rain forest. It was an impressive setup and we were told that they built the facility with a layout that makes it almost certain you see some incredible species. They are handicap accessible and even offer scooters. There are stairs in some places but I think those are off-the-main trail paths. The hanging bridges were really cool as well and gave you a glimpse of the volcano as well as the overall rainforest. We saw an owl that apparently was a huge deal. You can tell it is when all your guides take pictures on their phone and tell you that’s the best thing they’ve seen in months.
Callum Kerr — Google review
Amazing experience and would recommend for anyone. Hike was medium. There were small kids and elders doing it, and there are benches you can stop to sit at. Saw so much wildlife - 2 species of monkey, eyelash viper, poison dart frog, coati, birds. I recommend going with a guide if you want wildlife pointed out because it’s very easy to miss! They also know so much about the flora and can explain many interesting things along the way.
Dina Goodger — Google review
4.6
(8377)
•
4.5
(1828)
2km este de la represa del Lago Arenal, La Fortuna de, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
Monteverde Butterfly Gardens is an educational establishment that showcases various habitats for indigenous butterflies. It also features a center that displays a range of insects and spiders. One of the highlights of this attraction is its insect room, where visitors can learn about local insects and observe them in different stages of development, including chrysalis' and newly hatched butterflies. Guests even have the opportunity to release some newly hatched butterflies into designated rooms.
The staff was very friendly, the guides were extremely knowledgeable, biologist level. They walk you through different butterfly houses and are extremely informative. Many beautiful flowers and plants within the location. They also have other insects that they talked about. Obviously, the different butterflies were beautiful. I learned a lot.
Antonio Escobar — Google review
Wonderful casual tour. Lots of butterflies close enough for pictures. Phone camera works well but SLR works best
Tour guides friendly and knowledgeable. Had a great time
Ed Eyden — Google review
For an entrance fee of $20, there was a lot of information about local insects, such as the tarantula and the cockroach, but also wasps and stick insects. Afterwards we go with our guide to the butterflies, which live in a kind of greenhouse. Guide Tom was fantastic and the butterflies were adorable. After the tour you can stay in the garden for as long as you like and walk through it yourself. Absolute recommendation!
Carla Kessler — Google review
This was a great little place. The butterflies and in insects were probably the highlight for us and our kids. We really like handling the insects and even found some of our own a couple days later. Our tour guide really got my kids excited about all of the cool bugs in Costa Rica. It's not nearly as high up in the mountains as the big parks, but it was close, not too expensive and hands on. If you have the time, one entry fee allows 3 days of visiting.
Adam Stevens — Google review
Our guide Elliot was wonderful. Very knowledgeable about the Butterfly Garden and the plants. I thought he was an entomologist but he said he was a Physist and wanted to be an architect. Wow! What an amazing young man.
I really enjoyed the butterflies and learned a lot about tarantulas ( NOT my favorite animal) but very interesting. I highly recommend this place. Great for people of all ages.
DK1981 — Google review
Great visit to the gardens although definitely taxi as it's a long hilly walk. Really enjoyed the tour and shared some great information about the insects and butterflies. Shame the leaf cutter ant colony didn't seem to be active at the moment but otherwise this is a great visit for a butterfly fan.
Neil Smith — Google review
The best part about this place was the insect room. Learned so much about local insects and got to see them chrysalis' of multiple kinds of butterflies, and some newly hatched ines that needed transfer to the butterfly rooms. The guide caught the new butterfly and let.one if the guests release it which was cool.
It's very hard to get pics of butterflies. But it was cool seeing the different kinds. A bit expensive for the entry fee but overall a nice experience.
Cheyenne S — Google review
If you have time and/or are looking for a less physically tasking activity I highly recommend it. My guide (I can't remember her name) was very knowledgeable and I learned quiet a bit. As a added bonus you get great views from by the reception area and if its clear enough can see the Pacific.
Check them out and don't forget to get something from the gift shop. Better prices then a lot of other places.
Haben W — Google review
Tour guide was professional and knowledgeable! You go with them through all the areas and they explain the different habitat, butterflies, and plants in great detail. There is also a presentation where they show you other popular bugs and it is almost TOO interactive! Then you are free to wander and go back to anything. There is walking, but nothing too strenuous.
K W — Google review
Nice place to visit when you are in Monteverde, good price. Not a lot of butterflies but the service guides are great
Cesar Juarez — Google review
Our Guide was a wonderful volunteer from the Uk. Ellie was a great guide she took time to answer any questions we had. It was $18 a piece for a full tour. They have 3 butterfly houses along with the nature center which has Beatles, scorpions, tarantulas, along with cocoons and chrysalises. We got to release a butterfly into one of the gardens on our tour. Our tour was also just my husband and I and Ellie so it was small. Ellie’s knowledge on butterflies and moths a long with her knowledge on the different environments made the tour very knowledgeable! Also bring your receipt back and you can enter again whenever you want to walk through the gardens.
Amy Crapo — Google review
The tour with Dan and Ashley was amazing. They took their time explaining and educating us on all of the insects, arachnids, and butterflies 🦋. The whole experience was worth the price. (P.S. Thank you to the owner for pointing out a tiger rat snake a couple days before our tour while we were hiking the arenal volcano peninsula.)
Bryant Avila — Google review
I felt this was a little overpriced at $20, but that price is with the tour, which they heavily suggest you do.
The tour guide provided some interesting facts relating to other insects and there were 4 butterfly enclosures.
Most of the staff was very pleasant. It felt a bit disorganized in regards to the tour. I got left behind once, waiting for the tour to begin as I was told to sit and wait and then another time when the tour guides changed. The experience would've been more educational and pleasant with a smaller group.
I still enjoyed it, but wouldn't go out of my way to do it.
Cassidy Dalton — Google review
This was a bit underwhelming. There wasn't much activity with the butterflies when we went thru with the tour. Our guide was a bit quiet and also said the butterflies aren't as active early afternoon. He didn't really teach us a whole lot. A female working actually took us back to the first garden so we could see the blue butterfly and taught us more in 5 min than our guide did the entire tour. She was awesome! So maybe with a more informative, interactive tour guide it would've been better. We got several photos when we went back to the first garden after the tour.
Nicole St. Clair — Google review
Wonderful place to learn more about butterflies and see them flying around you.
The guides are super enthusiastic and won’t stop telling all kind of fun facts about butterflies, scorpions, spiders and even cockroaches.
The first 3 butterfly areas are a bit smaller giving more chance of seeing them up close. The forth area and bigger one is very nice giving a more outdoor feeling.
Remco Stribos — Google review
The fee is ridiculously expensive. 20 USD to see the butterflies. The garden itself was also pretty underwhelming.
If you have a lot of spare time and are willing to pay 20 dollars as an entrance fee, then it's fine. But if you have a tight schedule, this is not a 'must see'.
I recommend going to the waterfall close by instead.
Indy Bakker — Google review
A wonderful and educational visit guided by a volunteer. Worth the trip while staying in Santa Elena. The front desk was nice to call a taxi for us. Avoid the bathroom in the entrance area, though. we visited the Bat Jungle in the same area and that was a huge disappointment.
Brenda Miyafuji — Google review
Such a wonderful and educational experience. Our guide was an entomologist and had an extensive knowledge of all of the insects and little critters in the Gardens.
The entry fee also gets you free license to hang out after the tour is over, and they will let you come back for free as well!
Could not recommend this place more if you are visiting the area!
JonMichael Sampson — Google review
Easy 10 minute walk from town and well worth the effort. The butterflies were beautiful and come right up to you, even landing on you sometimes. You also get to see stick insects, tarantulas and cockroaches. The guide Julia is great, she is so friendly and knowledgeable. Great place to spend an hour or two
Steve Ormond — Google review
4.6
(731)
•
4.5
(768)
700 m sur del escuela cerro plano, Provincia de Puntarenas, Monteverde, Costa Rica
Curi-Cancha Reserve is a rainforest preserve with over 200 bird species and guided tours that include nighttime excursions. Its cloud forest creates a suitable habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including colorful quetzals and monkeys. The reserve offers several nature trails for visitors to explore, and its daily capacity of only 50 people ensures minimal crowds and more opportunities to spot wildlife.
We had the most fun and informative birdwatching tour with Hector here! Such a wonderful place to spot the most beautiful of the birds. Hector was very obviously the best when you see other guides come asking for information.
Selina Wang — Google review
A wonderful nature preserve with amazing biodiversity. A typical tour takes between 2 to 2.5 hours but you can go as fast or as slow as you desire. Guides are available (for an extra fee) and can make for a more rewarding experience. We walked about 60% of the trails before kids started to complain they were tired. Trails are dirt, or mud, and can be pretty steep at some points. This is a great place to visit May-December when the temperature is slightly lower and animals descend to lower elevations.
Leonardo Genzon — Google review
This park has a lot to offer. The trails are fairly easy - not too steep for the most part. There are beautiful vistas at every turn. We saw many animals without trying too hard: a sloth, agouti, coati, birds... The labyrinth and garden are also lovely. This would be a great park to do if you are feeling a little tired after other hikes in Monteverde and want somewhere chill to spend your time outdoors.
Rebecca Froehlich — Google review
The morning wildlife tour was one of the most enjoyable experiences I had in Monteverde! Our guide was Jorge, and he was so pleasant and eager to show us whatever wildlife he could. We saw hummingbirds, toucans, toucanets, white faced capuchin monkeys and heard wild boar. Jorge was kind enough to take beautiful pictures with our phones through his telescope. He explained about the sounds animals make and the relationships between them. We enjoyed conversing with Jorge a lot, he has so much knowledge. Definitely worth it.
Nayla Yehia — Google review
Gorgeous reserve teeming with wildlife. We spotted a rare ornate eagle with our guide, Johnny Loves Nature- highly recommended to help you get the most of your visit! While the entry price is a bit steep at $20 per person, we are glad to support conservation efforts and local jobs, and felt it was worthwhile for the experience. Make sure to get there midday at the latest so you’re not rushed- they close at 3:00.
Rebecca Kassay — Google review
Very good experience as we saw the Queztal here and many other birds ! We had a very good guide (David) who explained with passion interesting things about birds, reptiles and animals in general. Our tour was at 8am. Still good hour to see many animals digesting their first meal of the day!
Phil Caro Gaillard - Ofenhammer — Google review
Our guide, Pablo, provided an excellent night tour. Our group was small, and we saw owls, a Pit Viper snake, a two-toed sloth, lots of Brown Jays, spiders, and a sleeping Toucan. His night scope allowed us to capture photos and videos with our phones of these amazing creatures. Great job, Pablo!
Stephen Kinstler — Google review
Beautiful preserve! Lots of well- maintained trails around ponds, valleys, and huge old trees. We saw the mokmok and got lucky with a late-season quetzal!
Alexander Newton — Google review
Peaceful, gorgeous reserve for several hours of hiking. We chose to explore without a guide, but still saw lots of wildlife on our own: butterflies, hummingbirds, a wolf spider, agoutis, etc.
If you're interested in seeing all the birds, you should probably have a guide. Otherwise, just take your time and watch carefully.
Catherine Campbell — Google review
Jorge was our guide. He was very knowledgeable on the all the wildlife and forrest. We would've never saw any animals without the guide. I definitely recommend a guide.
Nicole St. Clair — Google review
We enjoyed the most tranquil walk at Curi-Cancha Reserve. We did a self-guided tour, and spent about two hours slowly walking three miles through the park. We enjoyed the sounds of the forest, spotting animals and birds along the way. We arrived at 7:15am and saw only a few people during our time in the park. Would recommend starting your day here!
Stefanie Green — Google review
Curi Cancha is a wonderful preserve near Monteverde. We had a highly knowledgeable guide with good English skills. They preserve is well constructed with wide trails providing access to all the places you might see birds and other wildlife.
This is a very highly rated birding site but if it wasn't for our guide, I would have missed most of them. The guides can easily identify birds by their calls, making it much easier to find them in the dense forest. As they do this daily, they know pretty much what birds are there and where to find them.
If you are in the area and enjoy birds you won't want to miss this place.
Dennis Ernst — Google review
We combined the night tour here with a natural history walk at the cloud forest reserve and must say this was really a good idea. This place is though no cloud forest, but is home to many interesting animals and birds that we could not see in the cloud forest. We saw tucan, tarantula , baby frogs, green viper, Scorpio. Our guide is 20 years in the business and super experienced. He explained a lot and told funny stories and helped us with taking photos. That is really wonderful experience we would recommend further definitely.
Chuanqi Li — Google review
We went here to spot the Quetzal and other birds, but didn't hire a guide. We had heard from others to visit the avocado tree near the open gardens and we got there to find lots of people watching a few male quetzals fly around. It was amazing to spot them and watch them dart around! We really enjoyed the forest and did a full lap of the area, including the puma trail walk. We didn't see anyone else in this part of the forest and enjoyed the stunning views. We saw an armadillo at the end snuffling in the flowers. Highly recommend.
Keira Gaynor — Google review
Excellent tour. We went with Roy and he was excellent. If you're going to go a Parque, be sure to go with a guide. We would have missed a lot if Roy hadn't been there to point things out
Paul Sandoval — Google review
Great reserve off the beaten path which is worth the money. Less tourists means more nature, we saw so many Coatis, Agutis, White-Faced Capuccins and Colibris that we lost count. Park is really well-maintained
plz — Google review
Enjoyed our walk. Very quiet and not very busy reserve. We didn't take a guide, but saw some birds, flowers, coati's and more. Just missed the quetzal, enjoyed the trek to the continental divide aka the window. Trails were wide and easy. Took the bus to the reserve from Santa Elena and walked back with good sidewalks.
Barefoot mart — Google review
This reserve is beautiful and you are able too see many animals. They have many trails and rest areas that you can enjoy going to. I would recommend going with a guide because they are able to spot animals faster and know were too look as they know their preferences. Also, we decided to go here instead of another reserve because the guide told us that because of the season there was more probability os seeing animals there.
Sara Villegas — Google review
Our group enjoyed our tour and night walk! We were able to see a variety of species. It’s a bit slow moving and you need to be in the right place at the right time. Wishing transportation was coordinated with the tour as we needed to call our own taxi to and from
Ryan Greiber — Google review
We had the bird watching tour of a lifetime with David. Best guide ever. I can still sense his enthusiasm two weeks after our time with him. We saw 41 species in one morning. David made every effort possible for us to see the elusive Quetzal, but we would have to wait. We hardly got into the park for seeing so many birds. Insist on David as your guide!
Kurt Hill — Google review
We did a guided tour here (offered by the Park) and a guided tour of MonteVerde yesterday led by an independent guide. Both guides were excellent, but we enjoyed Curi-Cancha much more. It may have been the luck of the draw as we did see more animals at Curi-Cancha (Capuchin and Spider monkeys, agoutis, coatis, pelican, etc.), but also the park was not as crowded as Monteverde and has more secondary forests and open areas which makes it more conducive to see animals.
Sammy O — Google review
Very enjoyable visit. Saw a variety of birds & a Central American Coral Snake.
The gardens at the end were well tended too.
Angie Shurvell — Google review
Curi-Cancha reserve exceeded expectations! The diversity of bird species is astounding, and the natural beauty is unparalleled. For an even more enriching experience, I highly recommend the private birdwatching tour. The knowledgeable guide enhanced the adventure, providing valuable insights into the vibrant avian life. A must-visit for bird enthusiasts seeking an intimate and educational encounter with Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity.
Ruben F — Google review
4.6
(1221)
•
4.5
(1334)
300 m noroeste Fabrica de Quesos Monteverde, 60109, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica. It's known for its pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. The beach has a laid-back and bohemian atmosphere, with plenty of beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops to explore. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and horseback riding along the shore.
Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious escape with picturesque volcano views and an impressive selection of 25 geothermal pools. Guests can indulge in the spa's relaxing treatments or enjoy complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant. The well-maintained rooms offer a clean stay, while some balconies may require attention to ensure complete closure. However, guests can unwind and soak in the numerous pools, including one open 24/7 upon request from reception.
Wow... Great experience! There must be at least 20 different hot spring pools here, all different sizes and temperatures. We loved the warm water waterslides and the dinner buffet was good!
Yeah, it's a bit pricey for the day pass, but it was worth it. I've never been to a place like this one.
Jeff O. — Google review
This place was great pools are right outside and they keep one of the pools open 24 hours each night just need to ask reception which one. Breakfast is included which is always a plus. The entire place is clean, rooms are clean which is of course acceptable. Only thing I had a problem with was the balcony window didn't close well and the person in the room next to us kept smoking out there and the smoke got in our room and that was really annoying but other than that we loved the place! we will definitely be back!
animegrl610 — Google review
I came on a tour bus. Stayed for 2 hours. Lockers and showers are convenient. However to get to the hot springs the cars intersect with the path to the hot springs so you're dodging cars to and from the locker and the multiple hot springs. Poor setup.
The hot springs were good. Lots of room. Brought my towel instead of paying.
Dinner was not great. The steak was red and chewy. The salad was great. Main dishes not so much. The guava drink was enjoyable.
Oscar Aviles — Google review
I did a day trip here. I didn't spend the night. The hot springs are absolutely phenomenal. The separate pools offer something for everyone. The place is very clean, the staff were friendly.
The lunch buffet wasn't great. Simple enough fare, chicken, pulled pork, rice, fruit as long as it was watermelon or pineapple. Even the fruit was not really up to the standard I've learned in Costa Rica.
Chris Gross — Google review
We had a great time at the baldy Hot springs. They have a ton of different pools with different temperatures. And the place is done really well. Very clean. And although it rains all the times the canopies and the rain covers do a good job of covering you if you do not want to get wet. The water slides are also pretty fun. There is one that is a little more intense than the rest, and need to get past around a little bit.
Wesley Winsor — Google review
We've been here for day passes to the pools twice over the past 18 months. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides.
Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks (and maybe food?) Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left.
The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants.
We did not stay at the hotel, so I cannot opine on the rooms and accommodations. But all staff that we encountered were courteous and friendly.
We would definitely go back a third time if in La Fortuna again.
Jared Miles — Google review
These hot pools were amazing! The temperatures were all different, which made it really nice. The natural steam room was very cool. The price is about $45 per person, but if you're there all day, it would be worth it. There is plenty for adults and kids. I would recommend you visit if you're in the area.
Chory_MuthaFucken_B — Google review
It was a beautiful, reasonably priced hot spring. It’s fun to wander and test out the different pools, they also have paths through the trees that are fun to explore at night. The bars closer to the entrance have less costly drinks. Use the slides at your own risk-they are absolutely fun and absolutely painful if you’re over age 30.
Emily Lammers — Google review
We went to the Hot springs and dinner.
The pools are great. Not crowded even though there is no reservation required.
Dinner was a buffet and very average. You are only paying about $20 and the non alcoholic drinks are unlimited but was still a little disappointing considering the rest of the place. Drinks at the pool bars were more than $10 each.
Jane Stone — Google review
We visited Bali Hot Springs as part of a tour package and it was a relaxing way to spend the end of an awesome day. The buffet had a great selection and we didn't leave hungry. Eating with a view of the Volcano in the background was great. After eating we made our way to the springs which were heated by the volcano. The temperatures are different by pool and get warmer the higher you go. The top pool was hot tub hot and the lower pools were more "summer pool" hot. We had a couple of drinks and found ourselves very relaxed for our return trip.
Chris Campbell — Google review
I would not recommend staying here. The room was clean, but the sink smelled like rotten eggs (sulfur), no hot water in shower (even after maintenance came), AC made noise all night. One of the hot springs made our bathing suits smell. This resort offers day passes for people not staying on property so it can get very crowded. We got massages to be able to use private springs but there wasn’t any water in the springs? Drinks are $20 a piece. I would not stay at this resort again. For $500 I expect better plumbing. I was actually ready for my vacation to end.
Kelly McClure — Google review
Baldi Hot Springs is one of the best hot spring hotels in La Fortuna. The rooms are large and comfortable. They come with a small patio deck. The plants and foliage are well appointed on the property and add privacy in an otherwise large hotel. The hotel is right off the highway and very easy to find. They boast 25 pools on the property and include a kids area with water slides for kids. We did come during slow season so we didn't see too many kids which was nice and relaxing for us. But it is family friendly for those wondering. The hotel room we got came with a rather large closet, armoire, dresser, mini fridge, and bar. There is also a super cute vanity. Inside the bathroom was a little tight. Definitely not enough room for two people to be in there comfortably. The bathroom had a slight paint smell and also a slight sulfur smell but it wouldn't deter us from coming back. The shower came with a large deep tub in our room. So I would recommend anyone with knee or balance issues might want to request a different bathroom set up. The king size bed was nice for me and my husband and it was on the firmer side but not uncomfortable. We had house keeping daily and enjoyed the little towel characters they left on the bed each day. The property has several bars throughout and a few restaurants. Breakfast is included if you stay on site and it was different each morning. We stayed for 3 nights and enjoyed 3 breakfast. They also offer day passes for hot spring use if you choose not to stay in site and you can eat at the restaurants for extra cost. This property is not all inclusive. The staff was all very friendly and would say hello every time we passed them. I loved our visit. The pools all had something cool to them. I loved the ones that had the little day beds. Some were hotter than others and some were cold. There was a steam sauna and a spa as well. I would recommend it to everyone!
Karina Cecilia — Google review
This is truly an amazing experience that I’d highly recommend anyone check out when visiting the area! I believe there are 25 pools/saunas/hot tubs, and they get hotter as you go up the resort. A select few are even cool if you need to take a break from all of the heat. Everything was super clean and it was easy to navigate. One of the employees even loaded us up in his golf cart to give us a tour of the facility prior to paying. If you need food or drinks, they’ve got restaurants and bars available, but they also allow you to leave and come back as long as you have your wristband. We easily spent all day here, and would happy visit again! For the price, you really can’t get much better for “luxury” hot springs (but if it is a bit pricey for your group, there are free hot springs on the way to Arenal. They’re also amazing, but purely natural - not resort style, so wear water shoes to protect your feet).
Christian Prescott — Google review
We purchased a day pass to use the hot springs. It was well worth it, several hot and cool pools are situated on site. The natural hot sauna was incredible. Highly recommend going to pools where both hot and cool pools exist. Switching between them was really nice. The kids section in Baldi is small but well designed, it will keep the kids entertained. Overall was pleasantly surprised by the size of this hot springs resort
Nirupan N. — Google review
Location and the room was great, gorgeous views. But the staff was not pleasant. The price for the drinks and food was very high. For the price of a nights stay was $500/night and in my opinion not worth it. There are many other places in Costa Rica with beautiful hot springs. I paid for a night stay and then an hour after check out stayed around the hotel and asked to dry my clothes and they would not allow since it was past check out. For the cost to stay I would expect better service.
amanda ellis — Google review
A very well maintained and clean resort. Food is reasonably priced and good. There are several swimming pools and they are quite clean.
Only, improvement point I can think of is- bars should either not give drinking straws, if they do then they should be a bit longer than they are now.
Dushyant Sethi — Google review
I came to just visit the springs with a day pass and thought it was great, very well worth it. Total entry for myself (no time limit for the hot springs) plus locker rental and 1hr buffet dinner was under $80 which I think was reasonable. Facilities were very clean, spacious, and welcoming. There may be an extra fee for towels so I recommend to bring your own. Be prepared the walk to the further springs and the buffet area is on an upwards incline - not hard to walk but may be difficult for elderly/physically impaired.
Dina Goodger — Google review
This place is pretty cool. They have like 25 pools or something crazy. Swim up bars, hot pools, cool pools, party pools, pools with slides, pools for kids. It just goes on and on. Oh also, a steam/sauna area. So much fun.
Food was medicore at best. Drinks are pricey. Entry is pricey....but still worth it!
Christine Protz — Google review
It is a nice and clean place. The resort is well maintained and has a lot of pool options. I would recommend going there for sure. The only thing I didn't like was the amount of time we waited at an empty bar to get a drink with servers looking at us but not approaching to see what we want until 15 min later. It may be a thing to not bother you so much as I noticed that a few times but it is nice to get that first drink quick.
mehafroozs — Google review
Stayed a little over a week in May, Rooms are huge, great A/C, spacious balconies--a little dark inside but probably due to the wall colors and lighting. Wifi was also fine--I brought a laptop and used it daily, didn't have issues. Didn't use video though, so not sure if that would've pushed it. Breakfast buffet was delicious, so many options--seating area is open air with a lot of shade. So many pools, all heated, range of temperatures. It feels nice and secluded because of all the landscaping and tall palm trees throughout the resort. Large parking lot for overnight and day stays. Resort is in a pretty central location--feel like mostly everything we drove to was under 20 minutes. About 2.5 hour drive from San Jose airport area--roads are windy but all paved, and speed limit is pretty low. But it was a nice drive over--nice views of different towns and rolling hills/farms.
Connie Jung — Google review
We enjoyed our overnight. They had one pool open 24 hrs for guests which was great. We enjoyed the pools even more after dark. The free welcome drink was a nice touch.
The only reason why I had to give 4 stars instead of 5 was that our suite, in the furthest most building, overlooked a construction site so it had no view at all except for a green screen and it was noisy during the day. We were not warned of this when we made our reservation or during check-in.
Jenny L — Google review
Purchased a day pass and spent a relaxing five hours at this luxurious hot springs resort. $44 pp + about $15 in a la carte food. I wish we had purchased the included lunch option. There are countless hot pools (25?), many of them with waterfalls. The staff were friendly. My teenage daughter did not like the big water slide - ouch. Overall we had a great time here. The free hot springs at Choylin is an amazing alternative for those who are nimble and adventurous.
Burton Filstrup — Google review
We didn’t stay at the resort so I can’t review the rooms. We did spend the afternoon at the hot springs though. So many pools you feel like you can’t even hit them all. Varying temperatures in each pool if you find some are too hot.
My kids loved the waterslides. They particularly liked the funnel slide.
The afternoon included dinner which was delicious. Rice and beans, chicken/pork/beef, salad and desserts.
Ben DeRoo — Google review
We got a day pass with lunch included. There were many pools and we were delighted that each pool had a sign that listed its temperature. There are some thermal pools that have cool water pools nearby. At night, the colorful lights on the waterfall tower were spectacular! There were shallow pools with built-in lounges and a swim-up bar in another. The design is certainly well thought out. The customer service was stellar! As you walk around, when staff pass by, they always verbally acknowledge you. BUT the lunch buffet was pretty horrible. The pork in BBQ sauce was tasty, but I nearly broke a tooth because it was so tough. The rolls were stale and dry. The mashed potatoes were obviously instant and way too salty. The veggies were cooked to death, the chicken was dust, the pasta was mush, and both sauces, red and white, were watery and insipid. Desserts were your typical jello-like cheesecake and a fruit sponge with more whipped cream than cake. The best thing we ate was the fresh pineapple. It was sweet and delicious. DO NOT pay $22 for lunch. Leave, eat, and come back. Trust me.
Tena Jackson — Google review
What a fun place to relax! The varying water temps of each pool was really fun. It’s an excellent place to take kids. We were in the off season, so it was not crowded at all, but the water slides were not available because of this, I think. We had a pretty good lunch that was included in our price, and though pricier than a restaurant nearby, the convenience of having it in the park was great. And the food was decent. We did the day pass, so we didn’t stay in the resort , but speaking for the pools itself , I’d definitely recommend to anyone with kids staying in the area.
Emily Price — Google review
Great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides. Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks. Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left. The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants. Fair warning, the slides lead to super shallow waters, you'll end up regretting it.
Anthony M — Google review
Went here on a day pass. If you're tired of trekking or just need a break from the jungle this is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some drinks in a really unique hot springs/waterpark. Entry fee for the day and drink prices are a little on the high side $47 to enter, around $8 for a beer. That said it is a totally unique experience. I think they have 14 hot spring fed pools. 5 or 6 of those have swim up bars. Parking can be tough for day pass visitors. You have to park along the road outside of the hotel property and it can get crowded. Another fun and unique experience in Costa Rica.
Joe Pickell — Google review
Very over priced. Drink prices are outrageous. They sell day passes and over the holidays it was packed with people. They don’t sell Imperial beer but they sell imports. How can you not have Imperial in Costa Rica? Our room was located backed up to a construction tarp. We paid extra for a large family suite with balcony. Never did anyone mention construction. They did not care when we complained. Not even a free meal. There are a ton of pools on property. Property is large and well manicured, so it’s not all bad. But it’s like Disneyland with bad customer service. It’s very commercial feeling. I would not stay here again. The staff was nice at the main restaurant and around the resort. The buffet is very bad and mainly for day pass guests I suppose. The breakfast buffet is included and was pretty good. Property is very large and required tons of walking up hill. So if you’re out of shape this would be very difficult. Also not fun with hot and tired kids.
Nicole Dalesandro — Google review
the hot springs are great. they are large areas that are more public. on certain nights you can have whole areas to yourselves. The bar at the top is stupidly expensive while the bars further down the hot waterfalls are less expensive.. there is a nice sauna and several cold pools to do small cold plunges. You can have a great experience starting from the top and working your way down. If you want cheap drinks and good hot springs you can do Los Lagos but the experience is a little different.
Alan Jacobson — Google review
Too hot for me. Would be nicer if air temp wasn't 95 degrees. Would be great in much cooler weather. Thought the price to get I was fair. Can be hard to find three chairs together unless you get there early. Food and drinks were average.l, avoid the pizza. Was awful. Thought the staff and bartenders could've been nicer
A Warner — Google review
Not entirely what I was expecting, but made the best of it. We went in the evening around 5pm for a day pass (which costs the same as if you went in the morning - no evening rate). My initial reaction and feeling was Disney Land meets all inclusive. Many of the pools had swim up bars, one pool had water slides for kids, and there was a separate kids water park area. Not our jam, was looking for a more tranquil thermal pool experience which you can apparently find at other hot springs resorts. We went on a recommendation from a friend, but could have done more research ourselves prior to going. We did end up enjoying ourselves a bit more once it got dark and the pools started clearing out, at one point we had a large thermal pool to ourselves, but could hear loud music coming from another pool/part of the resort. All in all we enjoyed being in the warmth of the hot springs but would have enjoyed a different environment. Might be suitable for you if you have kids and are looking for the best of both worlds. I myself was looking for a more relaxing, spa like experience.
Ashley Mitton — Google review
We went there and got a day pass⭐️. Food was absolutely fantastic. Best bruschetta and salad I ever had! Beautiful interior. We did not stay at the hotel we did this for the experience. The water pools are gorgeous with nice design. One thing that needs imposter the directions how to get from pool to pool to find different temperatures and what benefits they carry. Me and my daughter loved it ! Thank you
Dominika Staniewicz — Google review
It was truly an amazing experience when visiting La fortuna. Definitely won of the highlights to go visit and relax in Costa Rica. The place has roughly 25 different pools with a few slides available for kids / adults. Be mindful to experience a few whiplashes from the slide!
Dannie Nguyen — Google review
Went last year with my family. Very good location, had an amazing welcome drink, breakfast is DELICIOUS and rooms, bathrooms, public areas are well kept and super clean. Funny name too (I have a weird sense of humor) and I love the statue of the lady in the front 😂
Will be going back!
Stacy Peng — Google review
We stayed one night at this location, breakfast was included and it was pretty good with a wide selection of food to choose from. We had a nice sized room that was in a quiet location. There are multiple pools at this resort and at night the lights look nice when you are bathing. I suggest to book way in advance because prices can go up quickly. Will definitely come back one day.
Ecotermales Fortuna is a serene and relaxed spa that boasts natural hot-spring pools, a waterfall, restaurant and bar. Visitors can spend the day exploring nearby resorts like Tabacon or inquire with locals to discover free springs in the area. The grounds and pools are impeccably maintained and admission is limited, ensuring privacy for guests. A lunch package is included with a diverse selection of salad and entree options to choose from.
Really beautiful spot to relax and spend half a day. You can easily spend the whole day relaxing with family or friends. We book it for our last day in Costa Rica and it was well worth the money. Amazing scenary, great vibes and lovely staff in the cocktail bar.
Santiago M?rquez Cabrero — Google review
Absolutely beautiful pools, friendly staff and warm waters! Would love for the dinner buffet to have been slightly better but the relaxation achieved here makes it all worth it! There were many families there when we went around 5-6pm which wasn’t ideal as we were on our honeymoon and there were lots of kids playing in the pools. The waterfalls and pools themselves make this spot worth a visit!
Jen Sobieski — Google review
Very relaxing, hot springs with a variety of beautifully designed hot pools of different temperatures and some cold ones to cool off in. There's lockers for your stuff included in the entrance fee and showers. Didn't try their food but the drinks were good but expensive, something I don't mind as much in such a private and beautiful setting. If you are on a tight budget you might want to bring a beverage or two in your bag.
Stephen T — Google review
A wonderful combination of nature, geothermal pools, and professional service. The limited number of entries per day means it never feels crowded. It is a perfect spot to spend a day soaking in nature. The variety of pools was wonderful to explore on an overcast day, and although it must be magical at night, I am very glad we could enjoy the facilities for an entire day (10am-4pm).
Ecotermales Fortuna run an extremely slick business. The dressing rooms, locker facilities, and restaurants are pristine and the staff are very professional.
We found the inclusive buffet lunch option is well worth it. If you are a light eater, opt for a meal from the menu instead.
Although there were some young children, this is not the family resort vibes you will find across the street at Baldi. Ecotermales is definitely more for adults. This is a place to let the healing waters wash away the stress.
Hein De Vries — Google review
Beautiful and well maintained grounds and pools. They allow limited entry so the pools were more private. There were about 8-10 families sharing 5-6 pools. Lunch was included in the package and had a variety of salad and entree options to choose from. Would highly recommend.
Afsha Nazim — Google review
This place was magical! There are multiple pools that gradually get cooler as you move away from the heat source. The hottest feels about like a hot tub. We found the second hottest option to be the sweet spot for spending the most time in.
We chose the evening option, and I’m glad we did, as it allowed us to see the place in both daylight and in the dark and fully relax with a couple drinks.
There were plenty of people there but it was definitely not crowded. There was plenty of space and we were always able to find a nice spot to sit or lay down. It was rainy while we were there which may have impacted crowd size. We actually didn’t mind the rain since we were already wet and it was kind of refreshing!
We didn’t choose the buffet option, but instead ordered some food from the bar. We got nachos, and they were excellent (also much more reasonable priced than the buffet)!
Overall would definitely recommend!
Sarah Craig — Google review
Overall, a lovely experience, very majestic and visually beautiful. We felt like this looked to be the most natural hot spring that felt luxurious, and that met our expectation. We had the lunch and day visit bundle, the food was good, but probably not worth the money, it was just highly convenient for us both. Our main constructive feedback was the amount of tourists as it felt quite busy, and the showers / changing facilities didn't match the quality of the hot springs.
Staff were very polite and professional. In summary, I would recommend this experience
Zack Eaton — Google review
This was a LOVELY 😍 place.
Security, when you drive up, nice check-in area, changing rooms, and shower are kept clean, with hot water.
The facility itself is a MUST visit if you can get in, they do not alow over crowing, and I believe you MUST have reservations to get in, ( I / We did not set this one up,) but we're so happy to have been part of the group that did make the trip.
The location has several different water locations for your body type or needs from very hot to cool to several COLD pools.
I especially like the natural rocks that are in one area, that allows you to lay on them but your body is still under the 💧 water, and the shelf rock next to you is out of the water enough so you can set your drink on jt.
You order your drink from one of the people working there, and the wristband has your number on it, and this is how you are charged, no getting out of the pool area for a drink, keep 👍🏾 having fun in the water.
Mr.Ruben Butler III — Google review
Amazing day. The grounds were very nice and everything was perfect for a relaxing day. Much smaller than some of the other hot springs and since they limit how many tickets are sold, it did not feel crowded at all. The drinks we had were delicious and the service was friendly!
Tomas R — Google review
This was the perfect place for after a long day of walking!! Tip: we went during the 7-930p slot and it was almost empty!! they have cool pools when the hot springs become too much (trust me you’ll be glad that the cool pools are there!)
Nicole N — Google review
The hot spring recommended by local friends living in La Fortuna! It was little more expensive than other hot spring in town. Loved the hot spring setting surrounded by rainforest. The hot spring catered for adults relaxation and was not meant for children which was great for us. There were few young children but they well-behaved. The buffet lunch was nothing special for the price you pay and you can choose not to purchase the lunch combo with the ticket.
However, there was so many empty cocktail glasses left around the hot spring pool and the glasses fell off into the pool with the cocktail fruits. This was annoying and not a good service. The staffs need to take care collecting empty cocktail glasses near the pool every hour.
There is a need for signboard in the Ladies bathroom for ignorant folks who use the dedicated hair dryer inside the ladies bathroom to dry the clothes which was irritating. The staffs need to make a routine monitor and fine people using hair dryer for drying their wet clothes and causing inconvenience to others.
Cootimaa M — Google review
Great setup with clean bathrooms/locker rooms and locked areas. The design of hottest pool at the top, getting cooler as you go down, is really great. It feels very natural with the rocks and being surrounded by jungle, but is incredibly well maintained. Loved option for drinks on wristband.
We went for 10am and had lunch in the buffet at 1, by which point it had become busy. Food was good and it was nice eating in the open air restaurant.
A great day, very relaxing! And a good balance between “posh” and a natural environment.
Meghan Nicholls — Google review
This is a gem, The water is great. They have an amazing buffet totally worthy to pay for 73 dollars (entrance + buffet). It has lockers and showers and great customer service. Mostly empty.
Cyndy Cerros — Google review
Lovely spa for a reasonable price. We did not get bored easily, and was a resting moment. Cocktails were great. Many people at 5PM for the opening of the night spot, but around 7PM much less people.
Michael Bédard — Google review
Experience relaxation forest bathing in 8 hot springs pool. We decided to do the day pass with lunch. It's was an amazing experience to just be in the water and allow your body to relax. The lunch was delicious with very healthy choices.
Wellness natural spa. Highly recommend coming here to rejuvenate your body for a day.
Pura Vida
Elizabeth Taber
Elizabeth Taber — Google review
We had an amazing day here! It's a perfectly professionally managed center. The pools are never crowded, the place is ultra-clean and the personnel is smiley and kind.
Absolutely recommended!
Hannele Anita Piipari — Google review
the place is absolutely gorgeous; the pool area is not huge but definitely big enough and does not feel crowded at all.
you have several pools in different temperatures from 28 to 42 degrees. all pf them are also well-decorated inside the nature and feels like true hot springs. you can see around all of the trees which is spectacular.
we were a bit disappointed from the lunch and we don’t think it was worth the extra money.
Gilad Levy — Google review
I highly recommended going to Ecotermales! The hot springs here are great and there is a wide range of water temperatures to choose from. At Ecotermales, you will be surrounded by trees and lush greenery, which enhances the relaxing atmosphere of the hot springs.
For food options, you can choose from the buffet or the snack bar near the pools. The food at the snack bar was delicious and for a great price. The cocktails were good too. Everyone in my group of five enjoyed their meals and drinks.
Alexandria Collymore — Google review
Features a wide range of pools varying temperatures. One of the most natural hot springs and because tickets are limited the place was not crowded at all. Their food is also very good! As a vegetarian, we decided to go A La Carte, but if you’re not, I would recommend their buffet.
Shikha J — Google review
We had a great time here. Our taxi driver recommended it because he said it was quieter and more natural than other hot springs and he was right. Because of the booking system it was a very relaxing capacity and we didn’t feel over crowded. The water was so clean. The whole place was stunning too. Staff were really friendly. We got lunch included. It would be good for it to be clearer in advance that it’s a set menu of sorts and that you have to book a lunch table for a certain time. But the food was nice. Overall, a great experience.
TH XOC — Google review
Amazing experience! We got an am entrance without lunch(if you want Pm entrance book we'll in advance!). We ordered food from the bar and it was delicious! Ceviche is really fresh! I tried a caipirinha cocktail for the first time and it was really good!
People starting to pour in around 11-12. So if you want to get less people get here right at the opening.
Jane Shatkivska — Google review
4.7
(2551)
•
4.5
(3059)
3.5 Km Este de la Iglesia Católica, La Fortuna, San Carlos, 21007, Costa Rica
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a vast expanse of lush, tropical forest that boasts an extensive array of flora and fauna. Orchids, ferns, and an abundance of wildlife can be found throughout the reserve's various mountains, valleys, and rivers. Guided tours and walking trails allow visitors to explore this unique ecosystem while taking in breathtaking views from the miradors. The forest's tree-level clouds create a distinctive environment that sets it apart from other nature preserves.
Beautiful, the experience was surreal. One of the most biologically diverse private reserves I have ever visited. Be sure to visit in March or April as it can get very busy during the high season. If you're lucky you can spot some animals! However, the main attraction was the diverse plant life and fauna.
Kynan Suttle — Google review
Monteverde is a unique biosphere full of different species of birds and animals , some very unique to cloud forest. This place is quite isolated and could take time to reach depending on road and weather. However it’s totally worth it. You will be rewarded with extra ordinary views and scenery. If you want to find birds or snakes, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide, they exactly know how to find the right places to spot and also you learn a ton of things
Kaushik Ghosh — Google review
These forests are so interesting and easy to navigate. Well maintained accessible paths lead you into another world. The canopy is teaming with life. Maybe, if you arrive early enough, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive camouflaged wildlife. Or just enjoy the diverse flora and fauna all around you.
Jessica Bundrige — Google review
Listen closely here...Hire a guide! You'll be glad you did. Ours, had 18 years experience and was incredibly helpful. We reserved online, and our guide was waiting for us at the entry gate. You'll need to park at the established parking lot down the road from the main gate area, (restrooms are available), where the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at the entry and gate area. We spent two hours walking the trails...with our guide and his spotting scope...(looking straight up 99% of our time). Now I understand why there's a massage table at the lodge. Haha we didn't see as much as we thought we would. A sleeping Sloth, a coiled viper snake, and some interesting bird species, but nothing like we thought...and I guarantee...we wouldn't have spotted anything on our own. The canopy is just too thick and high...remember, hire a guide. It's worth the time, energy, and the pot filled gravel roads to come here though. It's a special place for sure...get here while ya can!
Richard Ward — Google review
The Cloud Forest was a magical place. There is no parking by the way closer to the park so we paid $5 to park like 1.3km away and then we took a shuttle - but it was okay. The hike took us to a small waterfall to the left followed by a beautiful epic walk through the cloud forest to the right. The miradors are just phenomenal. Highly recommend.
Jonathan Ding — Google review
Very beautiful park with good hikes. Unfortunately when we went, it was very cloudy and we could not see anything from the viewpoints. But hiking in between their reserve is amazing. You can make it a couple of hours visit, by just doing the main trail, or you can spend the full day there as well doing all the hikes. In the entrance they also have a good restaurant. They offer parking for additional 5 dollars. It is located about 5min before the park and there is a little bus taking people from the parking lot to the park entrance and vice versa. It is well organized.
Bernardo Engelke — Google review
Absolute MUST, MUST, MUST visit. The trails are well planned and safe. They’re not too difficult and rugged but you are still immersed in nature. We decided not to get a guide as we had limited time. We managed to do all of the trails in about 3.5 hours, of course stopping for pictures and to bask in nature. The top of the trail that leads to the Continental Divide is spectacular. There’s no jaw-dropping views because the views are CLOUDS! At the top, you are standing amongst the clouds, which I thought was pretty cool.
Buy your tickets in advance, if you’re not with a tour group. If you’re driving, they have a parking area ($5 per car in advance when you book the ticket) about 5 minutes from the actual park. They provide the shuttle bus that comes every few minutes. There are free parking spots along the road leading up to the park on either side, but space is limited, not guaranteed and could be difficult to get in and out of, so proceed with caution if you decide that route.
TravelingGayPanda — Google review
Very interesting place! Even though (but maybe because) it was raining towards the end when we visited, the experience walking thru the forest with its very specific vegetation was great. The suspension bridge is a pretty cool place, walking high up above the ground. Really likes it.
Matthias Leba — Google review
We went on the 6am birding tour. Our guide was amazing and very knowledgeable. He helped us take pictures and identify the birds. We got there before the park opened and were able to park right outside the gate. Between the time the park opened at 7am and 7:40am, the park reached capacity, and they had to close their sales. Get there early! The hummingbirds are just outside the main park by the cafe.
Crystal Monnens — Google review
If you are in the area, do not miss this. I highly recommend taking a guided tour. I was in a group of only two people with a terrific guide, Mauricio. He has worked there for about 15 years and he is just full of knowledge. He also has an uncanny ability to spot cool birds and set up his equipment so you can see them too. He was also very kind and fun. The surroundings are stunning, I learned so much about the local plant and animal life and the things that make the cloud forest so special and unique. Walking through there gave me a sense of the timelessness of nature and strongly clarifies how important these environments are to all life on earth. Beautiful and thought provoking experience.
On the way out stopped at the hummingbird area and that was super fun. If you've never had hummingbirds whipping past your head, you will want that experience before you die.
Cheyenne S — Google review
Amazing!
This was a beautiful park. We visited in September which is the rainy season but we got there early and so were able to hike all the trails before the afternoon rain. We opted not to pay for the tour or a guide and were still able to see a lot of different plants, animals, and insects. It was very peaceful and quiet and we didn’t see anyone else for the first hour we were there. I imagine that will be different in the sunny season. This is well worth the $25 each.
Ben Sperry — Google review
This was one of my favorite things we did in Costa Rica, top 3 for sure! Although I like this kind of stuff, it was quite, beautiful, and all the plants and fungi were amazing. We enjoyed our time walking around, just wish we had more time, I would say give yourself 2hrs to walk and see the bridge and waterfall and take in the beauty of the place.
Josh Leard — Google review
We were probably rushing, but completed most of the trails ( waterfall, bridge and the deck with a view) within 2.5 hours. I recommend spending way more time in this beautiful reserve, but if you are short on time you'll still see a lot of cool things.
Oleg Ptashnyk — Google review
A rain free walk through the forest was enjoyed for about 4 hours. We didn’t get a guide, and we didn’t see much wildlife. But we enjoyed the forest and a keeping our own pace. Had a warm drink to break up the day. Parked at the trailhead for free no problem.
Sarah W — Google review
Beautiful tropical forest. We were able to see some animals while in the trails.
Off street parking was easy on a weekday. Tickets are sold per day so worth going and spending the full day there.
Julio Viana — Google review
We spent a wonderful wet and cloudy day in the reserve. We walked virtually all of the trails ( about 13km) and hardly saw any wildlife at all!
Seriously, it was the perfect way to experience the Cloud Forest. Whilst some blue skies and a view of the Continental Divide would have been ideal, it was just amazing to be able to spend a day walking through the lush, green forest and ferns, and experience one of the rarest habitats on earth.
We did see some spider monkeys very briefly and caught a glimpse of a pair of Resplendent Quetzals, but other than that, just greenery.
If you really want to see wildlife, you maybe disappointed, especially if it's raining. Go to experience the forest.
We got their early (7.30am) and paid at the reception to get in. ( Didn't need to book in advance) We didn't use a guide.
The trails are really easy to follow and we'll signposted so it's very hard,if not impossible, to get lost. There are some less popular narrow and steep trails where we felt alone and very peaceful. We loved those!
Your entrance receipt means you can go in and out as many times as you want in a day. So if you want to walk some trails, then come out and have lunch in the cafe, and go back in, that is allowed. The cafe has humming bird feeding stations so you can watch them while you drink your coffee!
Bruce Learner — Google review
Beautiful place! Must include when visiting Costa Rica. Well maintained and clear hiking trails. They have posted signs at various locations to educate you on local flora and fauna. I’d recommend Hiking shoes or shoes with non slippery soles.
Roli Garg — Google review
Absolutely worth the trip up the winding, dirt roads to this ecological wonder. I didn’t do a guided tour, opting instead to hike and tour the grounds by myself. Interpretive trails still provide lots of information along your path. I spent about 3 hours exploring the trail system, listening for birds and observing the diverse array of nature that makes up the rare Cloud Forest. I would gladly go again and spend much more time here. Admission is $26 and parking is $5, unless you arrive early enough to park along the road.
Jake G — Google review
We bought our tickets very early morning so we would have the whole place to ourselves. Took many great photos and the clouds looked like fog. The greenery was great and the red bridge fit perfectly in photos. Highly recommend getting tickets early morning. Also, there was a restaurant that had hummingbird feeders and we got many good pictures of hummingbirds.
Unseen — Google review
Beautiful forest and not too crowded! Great views from the Mirador. Make sure to come in time as there are always 3h slots that fill up quickly. I think 7 am is the first and I went at 9 and had to wait till 10:30am to enter the park!
Felix I. — Google review
In all honesty I did not choose to do a guided tour of this forest. I’m on a budget and therefore I did a self guided tour and it was excellent. I didn’t see many animals but the hike was lovely. Great viewpoints and a nice 6km route
Nestled within a lush tropical forest, the Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that boasts a 70-meter cascade into an inviting pool. Visitors can explore the diverse plant life and beautiful orchids and butterflies along the segmented walkway, and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe. While not particularly challenging, those with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the series of stairs leading to the bottom of the waterfall.
So first off $18 to enter which trust me is worth every dime. Then it’s 500 steps down. Those go pretty quick and there’s a few vantage points to take pictures on your way down. Once down there is a benched area to sit and change if you like but no shelter the changing rooms and showers are at the top before the steps. The rocks are slick and the water is very refreshing. The current for the waterfall is strong. But it’s nice and plenty of rocks to take pictures. But if you wanna hang out and enjoy the water the small pool to the left is where you wanna be.
Desirae Ande — Google review
Beautiful place with beautiful view to enjoy with friends and family. National pay 9$ foreigners pay $18. It's about 500 steps to go to the waterfall but there's many chairs on the way so that you can rest if you are tired. You can swim if you want water is 🥶. I really enjoy my visit.
Christina Bertrand — Google review
Be prepared for a hike up and down 500 steps! Take it at your own pace, you can do it! They have motivational quotes along the way that tell you how many steps you have left.
Bring water shoes and a towel if you decide to take a dip in the water. Its rocky near the falls and the swimming hole you can see fish swimming around.
Take time to look at all the flowers around you they're beautiful. They also have an orchid path you can walk, unfortunately for us none were in bloom at the time.
Christina Ibar — Google review
A great waterfall and a great workout!
We have visited twice now, and this majestic waterfall is always worth it. Plus it's great cardio coming back up the 500 stairs!
We went at a crowded time, so get there earlier if you want less people.
We brought plenty of water, water shoes and quick dry towels, all of which make the experience more enjoyable.
The water is chilly but refreshing!
Avoid going too far to the right side. There is danger of rocks falling. And don't get too close to the falls, there is a lifeguard there, but you can tell it's likely a strong under current.
Diana Chaloux - LaCerte — Google review
Beautiful waterfall with a swimming area at the bottom. I loved seeing the plant diversity. The walk to the bottom is a series of stairs, thought not the most difficult hike, it would be hard for those with mobility issues and your calves may feel it the next day. There is a segmented walk for orchids and butterflies. The cafe at the start has a decent selection of drinks and food.
Timothy Torres — Google review
This was a nice morning hike, though expensive, in my opinion. ($18/ person). Many people swim in the stream. The water is cool and refreshing. Note, there are 500 stair steps down and of course back up. We 60 plus did it easily.
Jean Robinson — Google review
The walk up and down is not as bad as everyone makes it sound! You can do it! I swear! If you're visiting for a few days, watch the forecast and try to choose a cooler day. We were there in July, and def a cooler day made a huge difference!
We're not really in shape people but we did just fine. I can't believe we almost skipped this place because everyone made it sound so grueling.
Everyone mentions the 500 steps because it's on signs along the way! So it's very fresh in their minds and they're saying it because they're proud of themselves.
The stairway is well designed. It's very easy to pass people who need a break. So you don't feel pressured when *you* need a break. There are seats at a few spots.
I think it took us 10 - 15 min to go down and maybe 30 to go up. Our kid went up in like 20 min. We took it extra easy. Honestly, you can do it.
Def worth the visit! It's a very impressive waterfall!
Suruchi K — Google review
Lots of stairs so if you have mobility issues, will be a challange. Nice waterfall with a few different swimming holes. Not to busy on our cloudy day visit. I'm sure some days it is crazy. A decent stop some other falls maybe more impressive.
grant I — Google review
Well worth the admission cost! Takes about 15 minutes to hike down and 30 to 40 to hike back up. 500 steps/600m. Take your time! The water is chilly, but refreshing. Great photo ops. Beautiful to see up close. Highly recommend. There's a spot just past the waterfall that's safer to swim in than at the base too.
April & Rich Moncrief — Google review
Beautiful waterfall that was worth all the steps, even going back up! Definitely not an activity for anyone with mobility issues. They have changing rooms and lockers available once you pay the entrance fee. Recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel and some kind of waterproof shoes. Lots of sharp rocks to scramble over to get down to the water. Current very strong near the waterfall itself, but there were people swimming in the river on the other side, this part might be better for smaller kids or those who are not strong swimmers.
Karoline Bowman — Google review
This is worth the $18 entry price. Yes there are 500 steps but don't be intimidated by that. There are plenty of places to rest.
Once at the waterfall you can swim right up next to it but be warned, the current is very strong! Super cool experience though.
After the waterfall, go down a few more steps and enjoy a calm river experience. You can relax in the cool water which should be a welcomed change from the heat!
Mike Green — Google review
Breathtaking and amazing. Super cool and beautiful and chill. Can go swimming there as well. Also they have lots of cute fish as well. Super easy hike up and down 500+ steps. Also the restaurant inside was surprisingly really really good. They had this roasted chicken, smoked with coffee wood. It was an amazing experience, definitely recommend this place if you're in la fortuna.
Law Mak — Google review
It’s worth the $18. An easy, yet steep walk down several staircases to the beautiful waterfall below. A sweet little beach and some quiet water with many fish is available for a cold swim. The other side of the river is privately owned and tours come down that way as well.
Lindsey Price — Google review
Initially, the facilities are in good condition. Nonetheless, the $20 entrance fee for this waterfall seems a bit steep to me. Descending the well-designed staircase for about 15 minutes provides an enjoyable experience, with opportunities for swimming. Don't forget to bring water shoes. There's a small area to swim and relax. As a solo traveler, while it's not the most impressive waterfall, it is beautiful, and I believe it should be free or cheaper. There are plenty more Impressive in Costa Rica.
Launaty Cruz — Google review
Visited here midweek but was still reasonably busy. 500 steps (sometimes uneven) down - and also back up so bring water if it's a hot day.
The waterfall itself is very impressive, can't swim directly in the pool underneath it (can take photos and that spot is mostly full of people trying to get the Instagram photo), but you can further down there are life guards present to keep an eye on people's safety.
We swam in the river just next to the falls, a few people in but the water is pretty cold and in places fast flowing so most don't stay in long or do more than paddle - glad we went in as it was a good experience.
Back at the top they're are changing rooms, and there's a great cafe with a wood fired spit-oven that does really good chicken (you get half a chicken, which was a suprise but really tasty)
Jamie Palliser — Google review
Beautiful waterfall with swimming allowed. Honestly I thought the walk was pretty easy. My 5 and 8 year old kids were free which is pretty cool. Not really any wildlife that we saw aside from a bunch of common fish...but really cool place to go swimming and see a beautiful waterfall. Great place to go for the first day of our trip and then go on to more arduous challenges. Contrary to what everyone was telling us our kids were able walk up and down totally on their own as opposed to the handing bridges. Rio Celeste was more impressive but you couldn't swim by the waterfall and was a bit more challenging with a 5 and 8 year old... but totally doable to just see the waterfall.... we didn't continue on to the higher up parts
Ray Erins — Google review
We purchased the tickets and lunch online the day before. It was convenience. I think they ask you to choose the time to wish to visit mostly for estimate number of visitors. It doesn't seem that you have to be there at that exact time.
Be prepare to walk 500 steps down and then 500 steps up. It was a nice shady walk but tiring. It was crowded at the water fall. The water was very cold. But after a long walk, it could be refreshing. There were fish swimming in the river close by. And in case you were wondering : no drone allowed.
The pre-purchased lunch was pretty good. You have a different limited menu to choose from. And It came with a refreshing fruit drinks , a few options to choose for lunch (costa Rica typical plate with different protein options, burgers , pasta...) and a small froyo at the end. After the long walk, it was perfect. I had the costa Rica plate with fish and the fish was fresh and tasty.
Their gift shop sales things with reasonable price too. The same tshirt I saw selling for ~$20 at hotel, it was sale ~$15 here.
Trang Thu — Google review
Getting exercise in CR is just one of those things you have to do. Why not do it with a beautiful hike to a waterfall. When you arrive at the waterfall there is a good size parking lot. Park and pay your fees to go in. If it is raining you may want to go in the shop and get a poncho ($3).when you start off there is a sign indicating it is about 500 steps down. Just remember, if you go down you must come up. Once you get to the bottom there are lots of people taking pictures and swimming. Swimming would be great on a hot day. Now for the way up you could run the stairs, but then it would be hard to stop at the signs posted every 100 steps indicating you are getting closer to the top. There are also a number of sitting locations to take in the beautiful scenery. You can watch a couple of the zip liners going by from the near by zip line park. Once at the top there is a nice small bar / restaurant that was cooking rotisserie chicken and making everything smell good. Sit down enjoy a drink or two. You earned it after all. Once refreshed take a tour of the orchard garden.
David Webster — Google review
We loved this hike! Down 550 steps and then back up again. Absolutely worth all those steps! Gorgeous crystal blue jungle pool with waterfall cascading down with a thunderous roar. Some folks went swimming( mostly Canadians) but honestly, it was too cold for us.
Ernst Koehler — Google review
4.6
(6880)
•
4.5
(9725)
21007, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica
The Montezuma Waterfalls Trailhead and Parking Lot is the starting point for a 40-minute river hike leading to a beautiful waterfall with a swimming hole. The trail also leads to a second set of falls where adventurous visitors can take a 10m leap into deep water, but caution is advised. Additionally, there's a rope swing over a third set of falls for those seeking more thrills.
This is super cool - but beware, it is not a simple hike! It takes only about twenty minutes but your feet will get wet and you will have to climb through trees and use ropes to navigate to the lower falls. The water is cool but not cold and is 100% worth the small hike. Just wear good shoes! We had no problems leaving our stuff on rocks behind the falls to get in.
Valerie Calvery — Google review
Rocky trail. Hiking or water shoes, suggesting. No sandals.
Water falls was great after a hot hiking. Moderate to hard (You need a good balance) botter line swimming was a plus!!
Desde el comienzo, hasta la cascada, es rocosa, recomiendo usar zapatos de hike o zapatos para agua. No sandalias. También tener balance, pero lindo la cascada y poder nadar después de la caminata!.
Mercedes Iglesias-Paul — Google review
Relatively simple and short (about 600m) hike to a waterfall. Parking costs 2000 colones. Quite busy so not the tranquil spot you'd hope! The waterfall is quite pretty. As nice attraction to spend an hour.
Not suitable for flip flops. Wear insect repellant!
Simon Tong — Google review
Beautiful falls with cool pools for swimming. The trail isn't easy in some places, where you have to use the provided ropes to keep from slipping. There are also steep paths and lots of stairs, and even though some rocks appear dry, their surfaces are slippery. But if you're fit enough (I barely was), it's worth getting at least to the lower falls, which are free. You have to pay 2,000 colones per person to go up from there.
Ross Brown — Google review
we walked right on through even though the parking lot was chained off. at this point, i'm assuming they did not open the lot due to all the heavy rain in the rainy season. we took the left side route, made it so far, and could not cross the river safely. the map was easy enough to read. the parking lot is small and the street parking is minimal as well so get here early! rocky terrain, and crossing a river, so waterproof hiking boots are ideal. but im sure you can survive with tennis shoes. bring swim suit, towel, camera, food and hydration to enjoy it!
Racheous Point of view — Google review
A place to enjoy and a great place to see. Two Waterfalls to discover (from out- or inside :-) )
There are guides at the start of the trail for hire; not really necessary but can be helpful and entertaining. Be smart - negotiate a price in advance.
Greetings to crazy Carlos ;-)
Michael Mašek — Google review
This is one of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica. You can climb behind the waterfall. So cool!
Heath Hollenshead — Google review
We were a group of six and we hiked to the first fall. It was middle of May so not much rain and we were able to hike the trail to the waterfall through the rocks. You start off at the parking lot at the trail head on the street level. Pay $2-3 US dollars to the “security”. Bring lots of water and even food for a picnic when you get to the waterfall. Cold yet super refreshing and murky at that time of year. Pura vida! 🇨🇷
Sandi — Google review
WARNING: trail is not easy. Must use ropes in some spots to climb completely vertical areas of the trail. Also, using ropes and roots to rapel down.
The place is beautiful. Its a pity the experience can be ruined by very bad organization of the trails.
First of all, there is almost no signage at all indicating the way, or even to confirm that you are actually on the correct trail.
The actual trail is just someone who decided to climb over rocks and trees and called it a trail. Not even something simple like little flags or signs to confirm that you are supposed to climb over those rocks and swing over the cliffs with a half worn down rope.
The first waterfall is the only one that has an “easy” path. After that, forget about it. Hope you have good insurance in case of a slip.
Once you make it to the other side and decide to go back the easy path, turna out the easy path is a “private trail”, which was never indicated when starting. And once again, random unofficial people sitting there charging 2000 colones if you want to go through. Not even a receipt.
Worst part is that this is barely 5mins of steps, and then its back to the initial path. Which the only way to reach is by jumping over some rocks to cross the river.
If you made it past all the ranting, the waterfall is very beautiful. Its really nice that you can also swim under it, and just relax and chill in the different waterfall areas.
Many little pools and waterfalls in the different levels, if you can reach it.
Would be a much more enjoyable experience if they actually used that money to make the trail better instead of just keeping it and not using it to improve the park.
Andres Capurro — Google review
We had an incredible time. The hike was easy getting to the first fall where we had fun climbing a rock and jumping in the refreshing waters. I would definitely recommend
Carl Martel — Google review
Such a beautiful hike. We did the hard side and found it just slightly challenging.
You can jump from the top waterfall (not the big one).
On our way down we wanted to get down quick so took the easy route. They make you pay $2 per person to pass the trail.
Mirela Rahneva — Google review
Beautiful waterfall. We were told it might be dry for the season but it was perfect. Pool is deep but wouldn't recommend diving..jumping ok. They try to make you pay park in there parking & take a guide...neither is necessary. Its about a 20 min walk. Its a little difficult for ppl with mobility issues...but its doeable, Especially if you take the riverbed. Great swimming experience and it was 100% FREE!
Shagorda Ahuanlla — Google review
Cool spot! 1000 to park, you do not need a guide to get to the waterfall! Just follow the beaten down path. It could be challenging for older people, or people with bad balance or weak legs.
Go early in the morning to beat the crowd. That is the only downfall is that it gets very crowded.
Travis Mackenzie — Google review
Nice and cool. The path there isn't for the faint and it's not that easy to cross. There are rocks along the trail also. It's moderate to tough in places. The second and third falls, extremely tough. The first falls are really the best: about 30 meters of flow
Jeff S — Google review
We took our ATV’s from Santa Teresa to the Falls which was about a 45 min commute.
There were 3 waterfalls as you go up the trail and we only hiked to the first waterfall. It took about 45 minutes to get to the first fall. Expect to get your shoes & clothes wet & muddy. You will need to go through shallow waters, climb up the side of the hills while holding onto guiding ropes. Wouldn’t recommend this for small children or bringing a pet.
The biggest & most popular fall is the last one at the end of the trail (apparently 3 hour hike).
We bowed out at the first. 😂 but, if you are an avid hiker or looking for a day of adventure you will enjoy!
Some Tips:
Wear waterproof / hiking shoes
Bring or wear swimwear
Pack lightly (no heavy bags)
Bring lots of water & snacks
Parking was $1,000 COL.
Marly & Kenny — Google review
4.5
(182)
•
4.5
(1463)
MW2J+755, Puntarenas Province, Santa Fe, Montezuma Beach, Costa Rica
23
Adventure Park & Hotel Vista Golfo
Theme park
Tours
High ropes course
Hotel
Tour agency
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
My husband and I did the zip-line over 11 waterfalls. It was just amazing! We saw monkeys and Toucans, the nature is stunning there.
The tour guides were super helpful, supportive and knowledgeable of the area. They provided the best service!!!! Super recommended!
shena alarco — Google review
Review of the zip line, as we didn’t stay at the hotel. As a rookie zip liner, wasn’t sure what to expect… the guides are great and you ease into things. Felt safe and secure the whole time. Beautiful route through pretty waterfalls while you hear the screech of howler monkeys waiting to jump off. The truck ride to the starting point is pretty intense with the rocky road. Wear bug spray liberally if you’re prone to bug bites.
Gabriel Lazarus — Google review
Recovering from the pandemic, the small staff go out of for way to make sure you are happy and taken care of. It's a long, hard drive up the mountain but the view is so worth it. Given some time to continue to recover, this place could easily be 5⭐!
Ed Burch — Google review
This review is mostly in regards to the management. The tour guides and the zip lines were amazing. However please make sure to negotiate and agree on final price before you making the trip up to this place. We were changed $71 initially for the ziline tour and then after they talked with our Driver decided to bump it up to $89 per person saying they made a mistake. I mean I get they have to share their profit with the tour guide for bringing customers there. But having to pay closer to extra $100 for 5 people is bit ridiculous. So just be careful and agree on the price before making the trek up that mountain. The 25 ziplines (yes 25!) do cross some waterfalls and has 2 decent rappelling over 2 waterfalls. However the lines are very short except for one. So I would prefer some other Ziplines with better management over this one next time especially given the fact this is totally out of the way of other attractions.
Abhiman Kalu — Google review
We stayed here for one night because I thought it would be different and fun compare to the normal hotels.
I was wrong. The room itself is alright. It's almost too basic but at least it was clean. There is no wifi at all however. We went to the office asking about it. They told us to try to get on a different network then sent us back. There is NO another different network. I work in the IT industry... I know what I am doing! The office just wanted us to leave them along or they don't know what they are talking about. The hotel ground is not well maintained. The Advertised trampoline is not in working order. The pool looked not well kept and not inviting. The maze is over grown, obviously not loved.
Now the worst part is the owner, a German lady. She has this insufferable attitude and made me feel very unwelcome. I thought it was me who she didn't like. Later on we verified from an independent source that is how she always is and treats everyone! She is on her 70s and maybe running this hotel is not her dream job. It really shows!
The next day, we did zipline tour. That was good.
But I would not stay here again and probably would not zip line here again due to the overall experience.
TooToo Hu — Google review
Checking in was great. Zipline was VERY good with 26 stations.
- They let us check in early and gave us a nicer unit (blue room #21), which had beautiful ocean views, a very large patio with comfortable patio chairs.
- Although the beds were comfortable, the top sheet on the Queen and King beds was much to small. The fitted sheet was fine.
- There was no fridge or microwave in the unit. Ice was available from the restaurant.
- There was a cone filter drip coffee maker, which we used. No coffee cups though.
- The room safe didn't work
- The wifi was VERY VERY spotty in the unit. It worked best by the pool.
- My Kolbi SIM did not work at all here, neither data nor cell phone / text coverage. Seems it is to high in the mountains for coverage.
- There is no warm or hot water for washing hands. The 1 shower did have warm water if you turned it on just right. The other shower only had cold water.
- The wall mounted air conditioning unit worked well.
- The ceiling fan worked but sounded like a dying penguin when it was running so unusable.
- the flat screen TV worked but was small.
- The on-site restaurant is decent. There is a nice variety available and the chef offers a seafood and a regular dinner special most days. Last night was shish kababs... 1 skewer each of beef, chicken and shrimp with salad for 8000 colones (~$16 CAD, ~$12 USD).
- there are lights installed throughout the complex so that you can see at night walking from your unit to the restaurant and back.
Marg Boutilier — Google review
The other places double booked, so we ended here. The local guy running the place is super friendly and helpful. He also arranged a driver to El Roble for us.
The view from the restaurant is spectacular. The room was a bit worn out, and a dead bug on the floor could indicate that the cleaning was done several days ago.
Daniel V — Google review
Great family-owned place to go relax with an awesome view of Golfo de Nicoya. Food was great, and so was the Big Papa package, which me and my 7 year old enjoyed!
Sergio Paniagua — Google review
We were a group of 10 doing the canopy. It was lots of fun.
Jose Chacon — Google review
Wow! What an experience! We did the ziplines but wished we had stayed. The hotel looks very nice. The guides were great and the views were amazing! The ride up the mountain is an adventure on it's own. The waterfalls and views are awesome.
Teri Bradshaw — Google review
Super 👌 recommend the Canopy has beautiful sceneries..more than 2 hours going down the mountain with waterfalls ..If you like adrenaline you have to do this adventure..love it
JL Audio Hi Fi — Google review
We came here for the zip lining in April 2023. Beautiful spot at top of a mountain. Drive there is a little steep and bumpy but if we can make it in a Yaris, carefully, so can you.
The guides were wonderful - loved their job and were so overall pleasant. Great sense of humor.
Andres Haljasmaa — Google review
We did not stay at the hotel. This rating is for the zipline adventure. We drove 90 min to get there but it was definitely worth it. At least one guide spoke English. They gave good instructions.
We had 24 lines running thru the rainforest with a water fall creek right under us. 1/3 of the way down, we got to stop and swim at the bottom of the falls. That was refreshing.
Diana Zaiat — Google review
We didn’t stay at the hotel but we came for the zip lines. It was so fun. Wagner and the other guides were awesome. I loved when we got to swim in the waterfall. Amazing views and a memorable experience. The lunch was great and the lady cooking and serving the food was so nice.
Chloe Chais — Google review
After driving for 2 hours in mountainous terrain in the pitch black night of 11pm, we arrive at the hotel. They were extra thoughtful to stay up for us checking in late.
We get our room, I wake up to daylight, and after opening the blinds, this is what I see. I was dumbfounded. The lounge like area had a beautiful view of mountains, goats, the ocean, wild birds, etc. Breakfast itself was satisfying.
Overall we had a spectacular experience.
Ali Tofigh — Google review
4.4
(340)
•
5.0
(218)
Tajo Alto 150, Provincia de Puntarenas, Miramar, 60401, Costa Rica
Embark on the Tortuga Island Tour located in the Gulf of Nicoya for a tropical paradise experience. The 90-minute boat ride offers complimentary rum punch and drinks for purchase, along with fruit snacks, a simple ham sandwich, and fish ceviche. On the island, guests can relax in chairs and umbrellas, visit the souvenir shop, or enjoy the bar while taking in stunning views.
I absolutely loved the island. The sands and the ocean are an amazing color. There's plenty of space to walk, swim in the ocean, and do plenty of activities. We tried snorkeling and even though it was pretty cool, we weren't really impressed with the views, but I guess it depends on the area you dive in! There's no reception or free internet on the island, but you can pay for wifi. There's also a gift shop, bathrooms ( they charge $1 for each time you want to go), and you can buy ice cream, food and cocktails ( one of the best margaritas I've ever had, for only $6 each). You can also rent beach chairs for the day, for $14 and you'll get 2 chairs and a beach umbrella for the day ( although there's plenty of space to just sit and lay on the sand with shadow from the trees.
Overall, we loved the experience and would definitely recommend the place!
Sebas Garcia — Google review
Great Day....fabulous scenery and service is unbelievable. It's like a 1 day all-inclusive resort! Perfect to kick back and get spoiled for a day before returning to seeing the natural beauty the country has to offer. Food and drinks are plentiful. Snorkeling was awesome (I am a first time snorkeler so I have nothing to compare it to,but lots of different fish and underwater things..lol).
Hiking was on a beautiful, very gentle trail so its good for anyone.
Highly recommend this tour.
Richard Johnson — Google review
A delightful day trip to a paradise island! We snorkeled, road the banana boat, hiked, imbibed, ate a marvelous lunch and enjoyed the beach. On the way back, we saw manta rays jumping out of the water for extra entertainment.
Tech Gole — Google review
I was looking for a perfect beach day, and this tour did not disappoint! We saw dophins and sea turtles while on the boat ride to the island and it was so exciting to watch them. The island itself offered plenty of very nice beach chairs ($8 each) and the sand beach was absolutely beautiful. The souvenir shop offered plenty of gifts to help memorialize this perfect island beach day.
Betsey — Google review
Great experience and staff is the best. Food was really good and activity’s are worth the money. Beach was really nice and snorkeling was very cool. Will come back again in the future.
And01 ?Pancho? — Google review
My husband and i had a wonderful time traveling to Tortuga island with Cosat Cat Company. The staff Eddie, Sébastien, Jordan, and the Captain were all wonderful. I am missing the other gentleman name - my apologies. But overall, we had an awesome time. We saw a humpback whale, dolphins, and peacocks. The buffet was great. The price is affordable and definitely worth the trip. We loved it!
Bobbie Fortune — Google review
Very cool place that is unspoiled. Everything must me taken(food and drinks) by the tour operator and then removed off the island when heading back. The boat ride is long as the boat goes really slow. I did the Island hike and the snorkeling. I highly recommend this tour.
Arthur Sosa Jr. — Google review
We took the Costa Cat tour. We had a great time, staff are very attentive. The snorkeling was ok, water too rough for me. But a lot of fish to see. Lunch was great! Really enjoyed the grilled chicken and rice. You get what you pay for on this tour.
Lisa McMahon — Google review
Boat itself was quite luxurious. Different places to sit and enjoy the view, relaxed ride to the beach. During this trip we got multiple small snacks (fruit, cake, fish thingy) and enough to drink. Bottles are not cooled however but rather chilled with ice cubes. So you either get cold watered down drink, or warm with good taste.
The DJ that accompanied us was a bit too loud to our taste, luckily on the front deck it was better.
In the beach itself it is nicely arranged. Own seats, some activities, bar, food. That was great!
Mathias Veenman — Google review
A fun boat ride to paradise. Tortuga Island via the Costa Cat was a really great way to spend the day. They have a lot of activities (such as snorkeling) but I opted to relax at the beach, enjoy the warm ocean waters, and chat with people at the restaurant.
Recommended to bring water shoes as the sand gets really hot and there is some rough stone and sharp shells a little bit out.
Chris D — Google review
It's a beautiful island that, as far as I know, can only be reached by a boat tour. On the island, there isn't a lot to do as the beach is the primary area accessible to visitors. There is also an island hike, which we didn't undertake, and I'm not sure if a guide is required for that. Everything on the island comes with a fee, even the toilets. The water is warm, and further out, you can go snorkeling, which is a wonderful experience. All in all, in my opinion it's slightly overrated due to the high number of tourists and the limited options, primarily just one beach. There are nicer places in costa rica which are way cheaper and way more accessable :)
AnotherPerspective — Google review
Had a lovely time at Tortuga Island. Highly recommend coming here and spending the day hiking, snorkeling, drinking, etc. The CostaCat crew was amazing with top notch service. They even brought drinks to you as you were swimming in the water!
Blin Kazazi — Google review
You begin your trip with a boat ride. This was about 90 minutes. They offer complimentary rum punch as well as drinks for purchase. You are also offered fruit snacks, a simple ham sandwich, and fish ceviche on the way there. Once on the island there are chairs and umbrellas to use, a souvenir shop, and bar to enjoy while you bask in the sun or play in the ocean. Views are stunning as you truly feel secluded from the rest of the world as you enjoy the island life with the other guests. Depending on your specific tour snorkeling and banana boat rides are offered. You get a lunch and tickets for soda. Our lunch was salad, potato salad, rice, breaded fish, and chicken with the option for a glass of sangria. When you leave you take another 90 minute boat ride to shore where they continue to offer complimentary fruit and rum punch as well as having the bar to purchase drinks.
You will need to bring lots of sunscreen, a towel, sunglasses, and hat as you will be in the sun A LOT.
Beautiful and worth the price.
Lauren Kiwacka — Google review
Tortuga island was beautiful!
You start with the boat ride there, go snorkeling for couple hours & see pretty fish!
We also saw dolphins on the boat ride there.
To note - everything on the island costs money, if you want chairs, they were like $10US per chair. Also the bathroom cost money to use. Just assume everything costs something on the island ! But the water is beautiful & you can go for a little hike on the island too.
Bree — Google review
I give it a 4 and half stars rating. Would have been 5 if it was a little less crowded. Picturesque beach, beautiful white sand, great vibe. There're few bars on the island to purchase drinks. You can chill under the sun, swim in the beautiful, pristine water, and paddle board out to the other nearby island. There are plenty of things to do. To get here, you have to either charter a boat or book a snorkeling tour. We booked a snorkeling tour, $85 per person, including door to door service and a (castado) lunch.
Teresa — Google review
This trip was Awesome on the Costa Cat! Cruise, Banana boat, Snorkeling, hiking with lunch included. Pull up a chair and do as much or as little as you please.
Doug Childs — Google review
FANTASTIC! I highly recommend this trip. The catamaran ride is about 45 minutes, and we saw whales along the way. The setup on the island is terrific, and the staff is exceptional.
The lunch served was excellent and the provided free drinks are okay. You can opt to purchase beer and other beverages from the bar.
We enjoyed the snorkeling and the fish along the reef. There is also banana boat riding available if you choose to participate.
Remember to bring water shoes!
Pete Ponyboy — Google review
Loved this tour. Used Zuma tours and they were amazing. Great snorkeling, lunch on the beach and everything you need on the island. Just bring cash.
Kurtis Morrison — Google review
Tortuga Island is a beautiful place to visit when you're in Costa Rica. Plenty of companies offer this tour, and the prices vary from USD$125 to $150, so make sure you select a reputable one. You definitely get what you pay for.
They picked us up at our hotel at 6:30am, drove us to the Marina about 45min away and the boat trip to the island was about 1h30.
The tour included a small breakfast, ceviche, fruit, and coffee on the boat, then a buffet type lunch (Costa Rican) on the island with unlimited rum punches!
Other activities offered are snorkeling, banana boat, kayaking, and much more.
The white-sand beach is beautiful and the waters are calm. There also is a small souvenir shop on the island.
Thoroughly enjoyed this activity!
Sophie Sklavounos — Google review
4.7
(3626)
•
4.5
(1031)
Q4F3+7RW, Provincia de Puntarenas, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Ensure advanced reservations when visiting Proyecto Asis animal shelter to avoid disappointment, as the group sizes are small. The tour is highly informative and provides insights into the complex world of eco-conservation. Visitors will learn about difficult decisions that need to be made regarding rescuing animals and allowing nature to take its course. The knowledgeable guide delivers an excellent experience with a focus on care and education. The lush greenery on the property enhances the overall visit, making it worth paying for this cause-driven tour.
Make sure to book ahead. Saw some people looking sad in parking area. They tried to take care of "walk ups" but the tour was really excellent because our group was small. A wonderful CARE and concern place. If you listen and ask questions you will learn incredible things. There are some difficult decisions to be made about rescuing and/or letting nature take its course. Very educational - complex eco world we live in and these people are doing front line work. I was fine with the price of the tour because of the cause. Our guide was really good at his job. Gorgeous foliage on the property.
J. Randy Lepp — Google review
Carlos our guide was wonderful, very friendly and informative. The animal rehabilitation process was well explained. We even got to see a mom and baby 2 fingered sloths! My husband got a better photo of the baby sloth's face. They recommend wearing pants and putting on bug spray for your tour. Highly recommend!
Emily Fisher — Google review
We cannot recommend Proyecto Asis enough!
The conservation and rehabilitation work they do here is incredibly important and both our guides were genuinely invested in the mission. We left feeling like we 100% made the right choice.
We loved our wildlife tour with Carlos! He was absolutely fantastic. We learned and laughed so much. We even saw a wild Toucan and Cayman, alongside the numerous beautiful birds and monkeys under rehabilitation.
Our sloth tour was equally incredible. Our guide was super friendly, informative, and had a sharp eye to spot sloths and other creatures on the preserve (we saw 4 total). He went out of his way to take incredible high quality pictures on our phones through the telescope!
Jackson Dahlen — Google review
If you’re looking to learn a few things about sloths this is the place to go. Staff is extremely friendly. I never thought going on a sloth tour, the tour guide would change the ways I thought about animals in nature. Wonderful tour! Best in town! Highly recommend going! You will see so many sloths it’s worth the time!
Gavin Johnson pnw — Google review
We loved everything about Proyecto Asis! Their mission and the work they put into protecting the animals and educating the public is wonderful. Our guide, Carlos, was extremely knowledgeable, funny, and passionate about the work they do there. We all learned a lot and my boys (6 & 9) stayed interested and excited throughout the tour. We opted to prepare food and enrichment for the animals at the end and I can't recommend it more! It was the perfect way to end our experience there. Absolutely worth the visit!!!
Kim Lehmann — Google review
Carlos was our guide. He clearly cares and is very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and the animals. Preparing and feeding these beautiful animals was once in a lifetime experience for our family with a child and teens. Good coffee too. Thank you so much! Support this place if you’re an animal lover, you won’t be sorry.
Stacey Oatman — Google review
This was one of the highlights of our trip in Costa Rica! We loved our tour—super educational! We also made animals food. 🤩🤩🤩 We loved being a part of this, learning about animal nutrition and toys for feeding!
Tammy Soweidy — Google review
We had amazing experience at proyecto Asís. Johnny was our guide, he was funny and knowledgeable. Very educational and also fun for kids. Me and my daughter enjoyed it a lot. Saw a lot of animals and learned interesting facts about nature in Costa Rica .
Nadezda Tatarkina — Google review
Amazing! Our guide Carlos was exceptional. Entertaining and educational. Beautiful place to visit. The volunteer portion is not just for kids! We prepared breakfast and watched as they devoured their meals (delivered by Carlos.) It was truly a special day.
Diane Poole — Google review
If you are in the La Fortuna area, take some time to meet some amazing people and animals! Proyecto Asis works with injured animals, illegal pets, and all sorts of species to prepare them for release back to the wild. You will have a chance to tour the facility, meet the animals (Carlos is amazing and gives great examples and stories for everyone, children particularly were totally engaged), and volunteer for some time by helping them prepare food and feed the animals. This was a highlight of our time in Costa Rica, definitely check it out!
George Hipp Jr. — Google review
Tour was nice, the "volunteer" part of helping prepare food for the animals really makes the day. Carlos great! Very knowledgeable and fun! It was raining heavy for most of the tour, but gave the chance to see how the animals react to the weather. I had some trouble booking, as I was trying last minute. The ladies at the front we so helpful. Appreciated there help and responses in WhatsApp. Would definitely go again maybe on a stay volunteer.
Roxanne Splett-young — Google review
What a great place. The opposite of all the reserves that present themselves as protecting the animals but actually take them away from their forests to show them in a much smaller area to tourists.
The owners put so much energy in doing education about the black market of animals in Costa Rica and the visit is really interesting. You get to see wounded or formerly domesticated animals that now found a place here. Highly highly recommended
Daniel Moszynski — Google review
Great place, really welcoming, and super knowledgeable team who know how important true ecology is. The costs are very reasonable and goes towards funding their work not some glorified unethical theme park like the other place in Fortuna (who I’m told poaches animals from the wild to show in enclosures - not sure how that is legal in CR) but anyway Proyecto Asia is NOT like that! They are the good guys and deserve all the visitors 🥰🌎🦥
Jen E — Google review
These were by far the best wildlife awareness and rehabilitation programs I have ever attended, and my favorite activity from our trip. We did the whole day with the wildlife tour, volunteering, and sloth tour. Both of our guides were extremely engaging. Most of the animals we saw are being rehabilitated after being kept as pets, and the education around responsible human interaction with animals was priceless.
Thank you so much!
Emilie Giustozzi — Google review
Proyecto Asis is a heartwarming, real deal animal rehabilitation sanctuary. Most of their animals were brought to them by protection agencies due to poaching or illegal pet ownership. We did the wildlife tour and volunteering and loved every moment there. Our guide was Carlos who seems like he was born to rehabilitate animals and educate humans about the importance of conservation. Not to mention, he is undeniably adorable and just fun to be around. His connection with the animals is so evident. The mission is to reintroduce the animals to the wild when they are healthy and strong enough to adapt. All of the animals are well cared for and well nourished. This experience was a true highlight for my husband and I, and one we will never forget! Pura Vida!
Jules Karsten — Google review
My partner and I heard about this tour + volunteer opportunity from a friend. We had an amazing time with Carlos, our tour guide. The tour was very informative about the current problems facing the birds and monkeys in Costa Rica. We got to ask many questions, and it's obvious that Carlos is very passionate about his work.
Once the tour ended, we got to prep fruits and vegetables for the monkeys and watch them eat. There were 3 kids in our tour group, and they all had fun prepping the food for the monkeys.
This is a MUST DO when you're in Costa Rica. It's only 30 minutes driving distance away from La Fortuna.
Nancy Young — Google review
Wildlife Tour and Volunteer - It was a wonderful experience at Proyecto Asis. Each animal is cared for, fed and visited by volunteers, staff and expert veterinarians and released when it is considered fully rehabilitated. The staff takes care of different types of monkeys, toucans and parrots, wild cats, raccoons, coatis, pigs and many others who need help from time to time. It's always nice to see up close how much these people do for these animals and it's rewarding to be able to take part in the project, even if for a short time. Carlos, our guide, was amazing! He's really kind and he was really happy to share all his knowledge with us. It was really interesting getting to know better every species. We also had much fun preparing food and toys for the animals and watching them eating.
Really recommended experience!!!
Francesca Manno — Google review
This tour was excellent. We did the sanctuary tour, volunteered preparing meals for the animals, had lunch down the road (a short walk), and then we enjoyed the sloth tour. It was extremely informative. Staff were very friendly and thoughtful. They had refreshments and we had some down time between tours so they provided coloring and puzzles for our son. This sanctuary is legit. They have the best interest of the animals at heart and it shows.
Catherine Cavanaugh — Google review
It was a great experience for the whole family, and I'll always recommend places that seem to be working to conserve nature.
We did the full experience, including preparing food for the monkeys and the sloth hike. It was educational and fun.
Ryan Schroeder — Google review
My husband and I saw this place online and we were so happy we went. It is money well spent because it goes to the sanctuary. Carlos was our guide and provided information that many most likely don't know, especially tourists. This helped us understand that wildlife is wild and should stay that way. We have no interest in taking pictures with monkeys or sloths after hearing about the issues it causes. This place should be visited by everyone to fully understand how unfair it is to the animals when people are careless or uneducated. We highly recommend visiting this place. We also found out they have volunteer programs, which is nice. Flip-flops or sandals would be fine, the walkway is crushed stone.
Crystal H — Google review
Proyecto Asis is a must experience to learn and give something back to the community for the adorable animals of Costa Rica. It’s a rehabilitation center that provides medical and therapy for the animal friends that need to return/introduce back to their wild environment. Our tour guide Carlos was quite informative and a lot of fun which made both learning and volunteering just a delightful experience. One of the highlights of my trip that teach you outside of the textbook and be more familiar with their lives and surroundings.
oya yazıcıoğlu — Google review
4.8
(447)
•
5.0
(1884)
141, Provincia de Alajuela, San Carlos, Costa Rica
What an great evening experience!!! 🔥🤩 We found this attraction suddenly on google, arrived, they have checked the availability, booked it next available slot (same evening), pain and went on the boat! We were so lucky to have all the boat just for us, as other guys didn't showed up.
The two guys were incredible, one was explaining everything to us in English, so knowledge with fun stories! And the other was driving the boat and feeding crocs with meat from his hands! Incredible! When the crocodile wasn't there - he was spending some time to call him so they can be demonstrated to us 👏👏👏
After we saw all the crocs we could, we went to the mangroves, again, followed with interesting information.
We finished our river tour watching the sunset where the river meets the ocean.
Worth it 💯! If you in Costa Rica, go for it! And I do recommend to go for the evening slot (4pm), as it is not so hot and you will be watch the sunset. Perfect ending of the day.
Thank you so much, guys!
People on the 'reception' was very friendly too. Very good staff!
Katrin — Google review
We went on the boat trip today and Adrian our guide was fantastic. We saw lots of crocodiles (adult and baby) and different wildlife. Adrian was really knowledgeable and shared some really interesting facts about Costa Rica and the animals. My children loved it. Thank you to Adrian and the team for a great morning. They even organised transport for us to get to the river, as we hadn’t hired a car. Highly recommend.
amy burns — Google review
Pictures do not do justice how amazing this tour was and how much fun we had. Not only did we get to see a bunch of crocodiles but we also got to see a wide variety of birds and learn about them too. I feel bad for the only bird watching tour because they missed out on a lot more fun.
Our guide was funny as hell always cracking jokes and so engaging that not once did I think the tour was boring. He was constantly talking and engaging with everyone. Explaining what's happening and what they are doing.
I've got to give points to the the guy that coaxed out the crocodiles with the raw chicken. He's a crazy brave man.
Alan Jarvis — Google review
Highly recommend Jose’s Crocodile River Tour! We saw a ton of crocs (happened to be the end of mating season and the start of the rainy season) and the staff was highly knowledgeable on the wildlife. We were lucky to be the the only ones on the tour, which was very nice of them to take us out on a private trip. We booked through WhatsApp the day of and the owner was very responsive. As of this review, it was $40 per adult and $30 for a child, and tour times were quoted at 10, 12 or 2 (last one of the day). Upon arrival we were offered coffee, water, wifi and the opportunity to use the restroom. FYI, the driver of the boat got out on the bank of the river and fed the crocs. You won’t be disappointed! (Visited 5/13/2022)
Benjamin Warlow — Google review
We had a great time on the boat. Our guide and boatman were very very knowledgeable and friendly. Hansel and Juan Carlos, thank you for showing us almost 30 species of birds and animals!
Shakuntala K Bhaduri — Google review
Had a great time on this tour seen so many birds and crocs. It's not long at all and get a bottle of water halfway thru. The kid feeding the crocs took my go pro and got some serious close ups during the feeding.
?????? — Google review
Wonderful experience. Me and my girlfriend went on a tour with them today and definetly the best of the best. Can’t even tell if the tour or the tour guides were better!
Arnau López Querlató — Google review
Fun boat trip. We didn't see many crocodiles, but the variety of birds was stunning. The boats were nice and clean, and the guide was very knowledgeable. There were clean restrooms at the gift shop. Prices at the shop were high
Richard Harkins — Google review
Great visit. Plenty of wildlife, lots of bird varieties, and 3 or 4 crocodiles too.
Well worth a visit.
David Metcalfe — Google review
Great boat and guides, he knew the river well. Pointed out many birds species and several crocodiles.
Scott Elstad — Google review
Good tour of the river and its wildlife. Knowledgeable and friendly guide
Toby Blume — Google review
Fantastic! Jose was a terrific guide, very knowledgeable about the crocodiles, birds and other wildlife we saw. The boat was clean and comfortable to be on, he gave us water to drink as well during the tour, definitely a must do in the area!!
Drew Kilkenny — Google review
This was so fun, and so worth the time and cost. Our tour guide, Jesus, and driver were able to show us some awesome animals, and they were so fun to talk with and listen to. The river was so peaceful and it was so great to be able to see crocodiles up close and personal. We were fortunate that they were able to get us on the next tour at short notice. Everyone was very friendly and it all combined to make a great experience.
Danny Stanger — Google review
4.7
(900)
•
5.0
(618)
Q9GF+R9X, Puntarenas Province, Tarcoles, Costa Rica
A beautiful way to embrace sustainable culture. This farm and family are making changes locally that are in a global mindset and it is so powerful. Not to mention that the coffee & wine that is produced is QUALITY and so delicious. It was such a pleasure to experience this tour and when I am back in the area, I hope to visit time and time again. I will be bringing an extra bag to check simply to fill with their coffee, coffee jelly, wine (made with coffee fruit!) And more artwork by the lovely Yvette. Thank you so much.
Allison Parsons — Google review
More than impressed. I looked at many coffee tour options during my visit to Costa Rica and this is ultimately the one I chose, an I’m glad I did! Gabriel is very knowledgeable and informative. You can tell he is passionate about his craft. I loved every minute of this tour, and recommended this over the bigger commercialized tours. You really get a hands on, 1 on 1 experience here. The farm is absolutely beautiful I could spend all day there. The coffees, coffee tea, and coffee marmalades we sampled were amazing and I bought as many as I could fit in my carry-on to take back with me. Thank you Gabriel for this experience I won’t forget it. Expect to see coffee orders from me in the future.
Christopher Barry — Google review
This tour is well worth it. The owner is very knowledgeable in organic farming and very good at sharing concepts. I left not only knowing how coffee beans were produced but also how various plant species and insects can be used to make a successful plantation. We bought some delicious coffee and coffee marmalade for our family and friends back home. I would recommend this tour!
Louis Beaudoin — Google review
Great experience. The owners talk a lot about the farming methods and growing local food/coffee. Highly recommend the tour and coffee jam! The light roast was my favorite!
Travis DeMars — Google review
I had a chance to take the El Toledo Coffee Tour in mid-October 2022. Gabriel and his entire team made it a very informative and worthwhile trip. The tour of his coffee production facility and farm and the information he shared on producing quality coffees, coffee wine and coffee marmalade was one of the highlights of our trip to Costa Rica. Highly recommend this tour if you have the chance to visit during a trip to the area.
Alan Pennington — Google review
We made our 2nd trip to Costa Rica in May/June, 2023, and we scheduled this tour AGAIN on this trip because we wanted to share it with our adult children. We had a wonderful experience. We had the tour guide / plantation owner all to ourselves, and he took lots of time to answer all our questions. The highlight is the blind tasting, and since our first visit 6 years ago, they have added food pairings to the tasting. One of the foods is coffee marmalade that they make from their own coffee berries. We had to buy some to bring home with us because it is so unique and delicious. Of course, we also bought wine and coffee beans. The walking tour highlights the sustainable practices of the plantation, and the plants they grow and harvest alongside the coffee crop. Our first trip we did the lunch at their Aunty's house, and I recommend that, as well.
Julie Florom — Google review
Fascinating tour and I don’t even drink coffee! Gabriel, his daughter Samantha, and their lovely dog, were our tour guides.
Highly recommend the Wine and Coffee tour because you get a full experience of what they produce: coffee, tea, wine, marmalade, all coffee based.
Gabriel is very passionate about coffee and shares a lot of interesting info about the coffee culture and the industry. They don’t use any chemicals to make their coffee.
The farm and the fields are beautiful too, clean, well maintained and they have a little shop where you can purchase their produce.
Booking the tour was super easy, just filled in a Google form the night before and got a confirmation within hours. $40USD/person payment was made at the end of the tour.
Raisa Pesel — Google review
Fantastic experience, so glad I picked this tour. The included lunch is a short but steep walk from the coffee tour. A beautiful family operation, great conversation (brush up on your Spanish to talk to Tía ❤️). We learned so much about coffee, production, innovation, and community. A treasure!
Tiger Rahman — Google review
We came here expecting to learn all about coffee and the organic process of production. We came away with so much more than that. We left with a deeper understanding of, and connection with, the entire ecosystem of Costa Rica, including the farmers. Gabriel is a most humble and compassionate farmer with a wealth of knowledge and a talent for helping you to think about everything we put into our bodies. Oh, and the coffee is delicious! Also, we thoroughly enjoyed lunch at his aunt's house! A very special experience. Muchos Gracias Gabriel and family.
T Z — Google review
This place is unique.
I haven't been to other coffee tours, but I'm certain the experience here is different and unique.
The owner of the farm runs it in a way I never heard of - he has many different plants instead of just one (coffee), each serving a purpose. For instance- one plant is just there to attract insects, diverting them from the coffee.
He also makes use of every part of the fruit, not just the bean inside - to make wine and other products (I don't want to ruin the surprise).
Of course you get a taste of everything they produce on the farm. And it's all excellent stuff.
The explanations about coffee and of the specific methods used in the farm were fascinating, I urged him to open social-media accounts and spread the word.
I think his ways are an innovative way of looking at sustainability and implementingit.
Eyal Pinkas — Google review
Great coffee tour and delicious coffee.
It's a family owned property with an ecological coffee plantation and they also offer a few rooms to spend the night.
We stayed there the night before the tour, the accommodation is very rustic but super cozy and perfect to spend a night (beware that the electric works with solar panels and there's no hot water). The following morning we had breakfast with the family in their own home, it was a very good typical Costa Rican breakfast.
After breakfast we did the coffee tour and it was just PERFECT, we got to try the different kinds of coffee that they offer (all of them delicious by the way) we got a really interesting explanation on how the production of coffee works together with other facts about coffee and at the end we walked through the plantation and the place where they produce and dry the coffee.
I would recommend 100% doing this tour instead of a coffee tour from a big company.
Blanca Cejalvo Insausti — Google review
Great tour. The best guide you can imagine which not only shows you the lovely farm and how the coffee is produced but really talks you through the cultural background and global impact of the coffee production. The experience makes you appreciate your coffee way more as the delightful drink it is.
Nic Sta — Google review
An organic coffee plantation tour. Our tour guide was the owner. He’s very knowledgeable and passionate about what he and his family do. They have created a sustainable ecosystem.
Heather Phelan — Google review
Great time in San Isidro staying on El Toledo coffee farm, touring and tasting coffee. Gabriel and his wife Ivette were just lovely. They gave us an informative tour of the farm, coffee bean roasting and brewing process. They don’t sell to corporations and they don’t use any herbicides. They use every bit of the coffee berry. From the skin, they make tea, marmalade and wine! Coffee is good but it’s even better when you know where it comes from, how it’s made and who it supports. Hands down one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Truly unforgettable ☕️🇨🇷💙
B F.Gonzalez — Google review
The entire experience start to finish was absolutely amazing! I filled the form out on their website and then sent a text confirming. I was contacted back right away regarding my request to be shuttled round trip, since i am traveling alone and did not get a rental car. They quoted me a great price and told me the driver would come get me in the morning. I was picked up exactly when they said and the man was very nice. Once I arrived to the farm we sat down and had a uniquely interesting discussion about organic production, coffee production, and coffee roasts. We got to sample 4 different coffee roast paired with bread and marmalade. Then we toured around the gorgeous property, although it was raining the guide provided some with umbrellas and others with a leaf he cut from a tree. I even got to meet their precious 4 legged companion. There was many other species of plants around other than coffee, which we sampled what we stumbled upon. I even got to eat the coffee fruit which was sweet and delicious. At the end of the tour there’s a little store. The guide didn’t push us to buy anything or even mention they have a store which i appreciated bc some places almost force you to look in their shop. I am so grateful to have experienced this tour and I would recommend it to anyone who is traveling in the area! THANK YOU
Mariah Contreras — Google review
El Toledo is an amazing organic family farm. Gabriel’s passion for coffee, farming, and the consumer made this tour one of my favorites in Costa Rica. His knowledge about farming, coffee, environment, and business really opened my eyes and educated me on the entire process. The coffee was delicious and we will be buying more from El Toledo. I highly recommend this tour!
Yoneko Johnson — Google review
4.9
(472)
•
5.0
(331)
Altos de, El Toledo Coffee Tour, Alajuela Province, San Isidro, 20504, Costa Rica
Jaco Beach is a 2.5-mile stretch of shoreline surrounded by palm trees, suitable for both surfing and relaxation. Despite its proximity to San Jose and nearby nightlife options, the beach has undergone a significant transformation over the years since becoming a tourist destination. There are some areas that are still pleasant to visit, but others have been marred by the presence of unsightly casinos and unfinished buildings.
Very nice beach!
The sand is a dark grey but the views are beautiful!
eliau piha — Google review
We come to Jaco beach for kids friendly surfing 🏄♀️. It’s a great beach to learn. Sand is not the greatest as it is mixed with dirt and there are some stones while you enter the water but once you walk I in to the water a little bit stones disappear.
Zofia Romanczuk — Google review
This beach was my least favorite beach to visit in Costa Rica, the grounds were not well-kept, the people seemed sketchy, at one point we saw, women, soliciting, sex, as well as we saw a person shooting up. The beach itself very packed, but not very clean not our favorite.
Adrianne Arbelaez — Google review
Seems like a lovely beach, we did not stay long because we had other places to be. We did not manage to find a restroom. The town nearby was very busy and touristy
Kiersten Hayes — Google review
Incredible vistas to stop doing the road. Walk down to the rocky beach for crabs and breaking waves along the coast.
Kevin Markman — Google review
This beach is nice but i have seen nicer.
The beach is clean however nothing compared to manuel antonio. There you will find a lot of activities to do, surfing, flying, jet ski, or just spend the day in the sun.
Here the sand is darker. There are waves that you can use for surfing and depending on the day is high vs low waves but definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. After you cross in the water, there is an area in the sand that is all big and small rocks which makes it harder to cross and play with waves or surf especially on a day with strong waves. However there are beach beds and umbrellas that you can rent and not a whole lot of vendors selling you the good stuff you will find in manuel antonio like cold coconut, shaved ice and other goodies.
Recommend.
Restaurant Critic — Google review
It’s a nice place to enjoy yourself. I didn’t like to see litter around.
It’s accesible and you’ll get a nice walk. There are always surfing lessons going on as well as people riding horses with the tours available for.
Yesenia Quintero — Google review
Great water in February, nice waves for paddle boarding, water is murky so don’t see a lot of fish but crabs running around. The beach is not crowded at all. Black sand mixed with rocks. Very dirty seems like no security, cleaning or any investment from the shore hotels. Occasional local entrepreneurs not too pushy.
Roman Roman — Google review
Was much nicer when it was a quiet blistering hot beach with a fishing village and no tourist infrastructure when I first visited there in 1990. Now an ugly mix of old new and unfinished, ugly casinos and everything grim that goes with it. Some nice parts and it's close to San Jose
David Phipps — Google review
Be aware of people trying to reapp you off. Parking is free. Don't stop to talk to the guy. Food is very mediocre here, just eat somewhere else.
Cyndy Cerros — Google review
Nice place. If your looking for a white sands don't expect it from Jaco. If you love surfing, you can get a not so big waves but good enough to have fun.
Marita Naz — Google review
I had the pleasure of visiting Jaco Beach, and I must say it exceeded all my expectations! This pristine stretch of coastline is a true tropical paradise, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
The beach itself is stunning, with golden sands that stretch for miles and the inviting waves of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a surfer looking for the perfect wave or someone wanting to unwind with a beachside stroll, Jaco Beach caters to all.
The surrounding area is filled with vibrant energy, offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. I highly recommend trying the local cuisine, especially the fresh seafood dishes. The laid-back atmosphere of Jaco town adds to the overall charm, making it a fantastic destination for both solo travelers and families.
One highlight was the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific. The colors were mesmerizing, and the view was simply unforgettable. I also appreciated the efforts made to keep the beach clean and well-maintained.
For those seeking adventure, Jaco offers a range of activities, from zip-lining through the lush rainforest to exploring nearby national parks. The local wildlife is diverse and adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
The hospitality of the locals was exceptional, with friendly and welcoming faces everywhere. The surf culture is vibrant, creating a unique and lively atmosphere that adds to the overall charm of Jaco.
In conclusion, Jaco Beach is a hidden gem on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Jaco has it all. I highly recommend this destination to anyone looking for an unforgettable beach getaway. Can't wait to return!
Elias Chelala — Google review
Jaco Beach is a lovely beach we've been coming to for over 12 years and there are some changes since our last visit 4 years ago. It's still a soft surf and easy to ride waves, people barbequing and families flying kites, people learning how to surf. It has become very popular over the years; the weekends it's gotten very crowded. I like seeing that there are lifeguard stations but we didn't see them being used this 3 week visit....not once. Horseback riding is here too. PLEASE TAKE CAUTION! Once the sun sets (some of the most beautiful you'll ever see). Go home to where you are staying. It's quite rough with people who might want to take advantage of you or want your money. During the weekends you'll find people wanting money saying "I watched your car for you". They might try showing you an obvious parking spot and want money. It's ALWAYS been free to park here but they will target tourists.
Vinnie 1973 — Google review
All kind of things to do! Sunset horse ride, surf, canopy, skating,ets.
Also good restaurants and coffee places.
Agustin Munoz — Google review
Good for surfing in the south end. However if you wanna enjoy the beach go more North where it's cleaner with less sticks and or people's trash.
IG IG — Google review
A bit rocky at low tide in some places but a great view of the waves. The sand gets crazy hot.
Justin Hull — Google review
Dirty beach south of the sewer river. North of bridge much cleaner. This time of year lots of wood debris. Nice sunsets.
El Rey — Google review
Fabulous city setting, this beach is one block from the main drag. It has a bit dirty water and sand due to its location but still is one of my favorite places to visit
Robert Burkett — Google review
Very nice clean beach. Walk every day
Michael Zdrojesky — Google review
Beautiful sunset and great waves for surfing. Aesthetically not my favorite beach because of the dark, murky sand due to the proximity to the volcano I believe. Too many rock ashore. Pretty rocks for rock collectors though.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center is a 14-hectare rescue facility that features wildlife on display, canopy tours, a restaurant, and souvenir shop. The center houses a large number of animals in spacious enclosures with groomed paths and information boards. However, the main objective of the project is to return animals to their natural habitat through an extensive breeding program focused on rare bird species such as the Scarlatt Macaw.
Excellent wildlife rescue center with superb cages for the animals that cannot be released. The parrot retirement area especially was nice. The sloth rehabilitation center exhibit was very nice. Giant iguana running around everywhere. The restaurant cafe was great; the coffee especially since as a delicious and made fresh with the order. Didn't see any of the big cats I think they were all sleeping when we got there
Grey — Google review
We wanted to do something worthwhile and interesting close to San Jose on our last day in CR, and decided to book a tour at Rescate because I had heard they were a real-deal wildlife rescue. We wanted to see animals, of course, but also to have our money go to support a good cause and not contribute to certain animal welfare issues created by the tourist industry. Not only was Rescate huge, beautiful, and full of interesting animals (which could not be released for one reason or another), but the tour was so informative. Our guide was friendly and nice, and we could tell she was devoted to the Rescate mission and values.
They really do put the animals first here. Animals brought to the rescue are rehabilitated and carefully released whenever possible, and only those animals that are too injured, too used to people, or too potentially dangerous stay at the rescue center. Visitors are not allowed into the wildlife hospital and are not allowed to touch any of the animals. The animals are also not forced to be on display at all times, with their large enclosures allowing them to move out of sight when they desire to do so. It was really nice to see the animals' comfort valued above visitors' curiosity.
It was also really interesting learning about the animal trade in Costa Rica and what is being done to end it, as well as hearing different individual animals' stories. I highly recommend visiting and taking the guided tour, which is very reasonably priced. There are places to sit and grab a popcicle, a restaurant and a gift shop too if that's your jam, so there is a little something for everyone here.
Lindsey Stirek — Google review
Fantastic wildlife rescue centre. Animals well looked after and have big enclosures. Got to see many different native species including Jaguars. Staff lovely overall great experience, would highly recommend.
Sian Otridge — Google review
This was one of our favorite excursions while staying in Costa Rica. This place is not a zoo, they rehabilitate all of the animals and release them in the wild once they are recovered.
This place has exceptionally friendly staff and such a huge variety of animals!! The food here was also incredibly good! They make the food fresh.
All of the proceeds go to supporting all of their animals and staff and they truly need it. You could truly see how much everyone cares for these animals and it’s beautiful!! The only thing that was slightly disappointing was that there weren’t many sloths on the exhibits, but we cannot hold that to their fault!! They definitely had them but they were sleeping lol.
Chris Vasquez — Google review
Where to start? This place is simply incredible! From the beautiful peacocks, iguanas, macaws, and toucans freely roaming around to the up-close encounters with big cats, tortoises, and monkeys, every moment was memorable. The shaded areas provided relief from the sun, and the staff was amazing. The gift store offers reasonably priced, hand-painted souvenirs that support a wonderful cause. We had ice cream scoops from one of the many snack stands scattered through the park and it was delicous. The restaurant, with its affordable prices, even has a cute play area for kids. Plus, they offer rentable push strollers. My favorite part? Walking through the giant bamboo, an absolutely magnificent experience with the breathtaking sound it made in the wind. We went on a Monday and quite literally had the park to ourselves. Clean restrooms and grounds. 100% would recommend. It’s a must see and enjoyable for all ages.
Jill Crowley — Google review
One of the best wildlife rescue centers! You can tell the animals are well taken care of. The center takes about 2-3 hours to fully see everything. All the staff are super friendly and helpful.
Ana Carrillo — Google review
Amazing zoo experience, it is always a pleasure to see wildlife in such well cared for exhibits. Most animals were visible in the morning, all seemed content in their enclosures and a few surprises running around the walkways was also an amazing treat.
Thank you for making the most enjoyable experience possible with your rehabilitation zoo.
Great place to visit!!! Will recommend to everybody I know.
Justen — Google review
I am always skeptical about these things, but it seems like this is a real rescue center. The place is laid out well. The animals look healthy. Wikipedia states, “It is administered by a conservation nonprofit foundation called Fundación Restauración de la Naturaleza,[5] which also is responsible for the country's largest rehabilitation center in the Rescate Wildlife campus.” It looks like it started as a zoo and then they started conservation efforts. Note that the actual wildlife campus is off-limits to visitors. I absolutely loved the huge iguanas walking around everywhere along with the random other animals outside of the enclosures along the paths. The giant bamboo grove is stunning, so don’t miss that. The crocodile is huge. Finally, don’t miss some of the talking birds. They were totally amazing. It was interesting to hear birds who speak better Spanish than me.
Ben Park — Google review
Tons of beautiful animals, huge iguanas wandering everywhere that just don’t give a $&@%, and their work is very cool. But I personally felt a little irked about how small the spaces they were, although it was not their fault, these are injured animals that would not survive in the wild. The price was also high, which I hope is going to the animals as much as possible, although of course overhead is expensive. Note, my son disagrees with my assessment about the cages, and he could totally be right. Anyway, if you can’t go far from San Jose, and want to see a sample of Costa Rica’s amazing animals, this is the perfect place.
A D — Google review
This place is 💯 worth stopping at! Took the family to explore and it feels like you're walking through the jungle and seeing a variety of plants and animals. Loved being able to get so close to the sloths, monkeys, ocelot, cougar and iguanas. Capybara we're running around under foot and there were wild birds flying around the enclosures of the kept ones.
Animals look happy and well cared for - what an amazing place!
Tracy Lindstrom — Google review
We paid for a tour guide and it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Our tour guide Eduardo was very passionate about his job and very knowledgeable about the animals. He was able to answer all of our questions and was very respectful to the animals. For those are deciding if they should go, you should definitely go. There is also a restaurant that had wonderful food options. I also want to note it is NOT a zoo, it is a wildlife rescue centre and you can tell how much the staff care and respect the animals. 10/10 experience would go again. Again, Eduardo was wonderful and you are definitely lucky if you get him as your tour guide.
Elexia Aboukhamis — Google review
Great place that is definitely worth a visit. Large number of animals in spacious enclosures, groomed paths, information boards, good restaurant.
However, the whole project is mainly used to return animals to the wild. on the one hand, those who got into the zoo due to injuries or captive breeding, but especially those that were bred here. Zoo Ave has an extensive breeding program focused on rare bird species, the flagship is the Scarlatt Macaw. These birds are then released into the wild in two centers in Nicoya and Golfito. Rescate Center also has a great volunteer program. Your entrance fee will go to a great beneficial thing.
Marek Kumprecht — Google review
Feels like a zoo, but a really cool place to be with the kids. They didn't wanna leave for 6h. Lot of animals strolling around freely like iguanas, tucans, peacocks etc. Everything is beautifully organized. We especially enjoyed the tapir. You can go there by Uber or public bus, there's a bus stop in front of the entrance.
Sarah Harzer — Google review
We had an absolutely magical experience here at RWRC. We went with our 4 children ages 14/12/4/2 and they all loved it. We only saw two other people while there so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. We booked a private tour guide, Amy, who was not only lovely and knowledgeable but very patient ( as our youngest was a bit overtired that day ) she taught us a lot and made the whole experience a day to remember. Thanks so much Amy! The passion and kindness that the staff have for these animals is incredibly heartwarming. I would highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area.
K M — Google review
It was pouring rain, but we had a great time. The animals look well cared for and the grounds are quite lovely! We would appreciate some info on the particular animals included on the signage. Also- golden orb spiders are EVERYWHERE- so if you are an arachnophobe, be aware of your surroundings.
Ellen Wilson — Google review
Our family had such a wonderful visit to the wildlife rescue! It was definitely worth it. We got some amazing photos to bring back home with us.
Angela Finley Manetta — Google review
This is not a zoo but a refuge for animals. It is expensive to get in (35$ USD/adult) but it is fine since they use the funds to save and reintroduce so many animals in the wild. It is sad to see that many of their animals have been hurt by human activity when it is not human cruelty. Animals deserve to have this kind of sanctuary and we truly enjoyed our visit knowing we were making a small contribution to this goal.
Kids learned so much and got to interact with some animals that are roaming freely in the park.
It takes about 2 hours to visit the park but we stayed for close to 4 hours.
There is a nice restaurant as well and food is good and service excellent.
Patrick Tanguy — Google review
I want to start off by saying this is an excellent place for the rehabilitation of sick and injured animals. The plan that is in place is well thought of in terms of keeping an animal for its safety vs releasing it back in the wild if the animal is prepared and can maintain an existing life. It is different from a zoo (which are banned in Costa Rica).
Our tour guide Eduardo is an excellent tour guide for English speaking visitors. His knowledge of the animals there and his well thought of explanation for the history of the animals they have taken in provides excellent insight. He also takes time to explain about the vegetation around the place and will help you identify certain trees or leaves. He also takes time out to listen to your questions and provide excellent information.
Because it is a nonprofit they rely on visitors and donations, I highly recommend to visit the place and learn more about their efforts
Justin Trevino — Google review
So much to see and the rescue and conservation efforts of Rescate are truly fantastic. They also have a nice and reasonably priced cafe with many food and drink options. We had a great time and saw so many amazing animals in truly great enclosures.
Jackie Cafaro — Google review
Its a great place to spend the day in this refuge walking along their paths and seeing all the different animals they have rescued, I really like the fact that they have a full working restaurant so you can plan having lunch right on the property. They have a petting zoo and I really enjoyed the ice cream stand right next to it, were you can relax a bit in the shade with yummy helado as they call it.
Manuel Barquero — Google review
We had the guided tour of the sanctuary in January. It was very informative and amazing to see all the animals up close. Even some wild toucans, iguanas and other birds freely walk the property. I was amazed at how Costa Rica cares for the environment and its animals. I highly recommend everyone visit this sanctuary.
Jennifer Meyers — Google review
This refuge is on the way to La Paz waterfalls and Poas from San Jose. It’s the perfect stop for lunch and to stretch our legs coming from the central pacific coast. Only 30 min northwest from the San Jose airport. The animals were incredible. So up close and personal. It only took about 60-90 minutes and our whole family loved every part of it. Flora and fauna included. We ended with a light lunch (mostly ice cream!) on site and were on our way. We will be recommending to everyone!
Mikayla Stover — Google review
What a great rescue center. Our guide was wonderful. This place is beautiful. And don't forget to leave a donation to help everyone's efforts and keep this facility able to provide the care the animals need.
Karen Scherer — Google review
4.6
(4718)
•
4.5
(883)
2.3 km al este del cruce de Manolo's, ruta 3, hacia el B° San José, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Family footwear brand featuring athletic & casual shoes in a range of styles, plus apparel.
If Sketchers work for you, this store has a great selection. Sparkly flip flops and slides, slipons and sneakers. Sketches are a great fit for my feet so I was happy to find this store. . .and the prices are pretty much the same as the US.
Kate Hayward — Google review
It's good if you know what you are looking for, help around the store is a bit limited (both quantity and quality). Store is well organized, his amd hers.
Manuel Zárate Sinfonte — Google review
(Translated by Google) Excellent service. I called to confirm availability and effectively 30 minutes later I arrived, and I realized my purchase without problems.
(Original)
Excelente servicio. Llamé para confirmar disponibilidad y efectivamente 30 minutos después llegué, y realicé mi compra sin problemas.
Zoddex — Google review
Can't say much, they did not many stock wide width shoes, getting the sales guy to actually go and get any was excruciating... and I am used to Tico sales persons.
David Gzesh — Google review
Staff are well trained, friendly and helpful.
uu s — Google review
(Translated by Google) I have visited and bought it. Excellent brand.
(Original)
Lo he visitado y comprado. Excelente marca.
Juan Diego VA — Google review
(Translated by Google) Recommended, those shoes are delicious to walk in…exellent
(Original)
Recomendados , esos zapatos son deliciosos para caminar … exellent
Michael Jesus Bustamante — Google review
(Translated by Google) The problem for me is that every time I go they don't have my size (12l which I don't understand very well since it is a North American store and in the US they do have it. One day I went with my mother and they didn't have her size in almost anything either ( 7 1/2) which is a standard female size.
Good service at least makes you less disappointed
(Original)
El problema para mí es que cada vez que voy no tienen mi talla (12l que no comprendo muy bien ya que es una tienda norteamericana y en los EEUU si la tienen. Oteo día fui con mi mamá y tampoco tenían su talla en casi nada (7 1/2) que es una talla standard femenina.
La buena atención al menos hace que uno salga menos desilusionado
Manuel Garcia Laufer — Google review
(Translated by Google) Excellent customer service. Very cozy place. Shoe styles of all kinds and the best thing is that they are incredibly comfortable.
(Original)
Excelente atención al cliente. Lugar muy acogedor. Estilos de zapatos de todo tipo y lo mejor es que son increíblemente cómodos.
Rolbin Muñoz — Google review
4.4
(121)
•
4.5
(363)
Multiplaza Escazu, San José Province, San José, 0000, Costa Rica