As told by DIWYY reader, Stephanie Blankemeier, who traveled with GAP Adventures to Costa Rica in May 2010.
Tour Operator: GAP Adventures
Trip Name: Budget Costa Rica
Starting/Ending Point: This trip starts and ends in the capital city of San Jose.
Number of Days: 8 days
When I went: I traveled in May 2010.
Highlights of trip: After meeting the 14 other travelers in San Jose, we quickly departed the next morning for the more adventurous parts of Costa Rica. Our first couple of days took us to La Fortuna at the base of Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is filled with many outdoor adventure activities like rainforest excursions, ziplining, canyoneering, volcano hikes and rafting. They also have great all-inclusive adventures. I particularly enjoyed the Liquid Lava Arenal Volcano Hike, Baldí Hot Springs & dinner adventure. It took us on a sunset hike through the rainforest that ended with viewing the molten lava from Arenal Volcano. We then headed to Baldí Hot Springs where we had dinner and soaked in the natural hot springs until late into the evening. It was a wonderful late afternoon/evening activity with adventure and complete relaxation. The following day in La Fortuna involved ziplining and canyoneering for more extreme adventures. If choosing between ziplining excursions in La Fortuna, I highly recommend spending a little more money to do the ziplining with Costa Rica Sky Adventures, which includes a Sky Tram ride through the rainforest and Sky Trek ziplining with 8 lines. The longest lines were 2,460 feet and 660 feet above the forest floor!
The second half of the tour took the group to a small ex-hippie town called Montezuma on the Nicoya Peninsula (Pacific Coast). May is the beginning of rainy season in Costa Rica and unfortunately, it was an unusually early and heavy rainfall for May. I made the most of my trip despite the weather by practicing yoga, reading, and relaxing in the quaint outdoor lounge at Hotel El Tajalin. Most of the day adventure trips were canceled due to treacherous ocean and road conditions around the area. However, the group took a day trip to Malpais, Playa Santa Teresa, and Playa Carmen on the west side of the peninsula. The beaches there are renown for epic surfing and the long endless coastline. The towns, including Montezuma, are very small, quiet beach towns. It was very easy to wonder around town and relax.
The tour begins and ends in San Jose. Although most of the gems of Costa Rica fall outside of the capital city, I ventured out independently to experience the sights and sounds before my trip ended. A highlight was the Mercado Central, which is a bustling bazaar with everything from spices to purses. Nearby are also the Teatro Nacional and several museums.
Overall, this is a great tour that gives you a taste of rainforests and beaches at an inexpensive price. Meals and adventures are not included and can easily double the price if you do not spend wisely. Additionally, I found ways to enjoy my adventure despite the rain, but if you are set on spending sunny days on the beach, I recommend this trip in the “dry season” from November to early May. Pura Vida!
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Hey Stephanie,
My name is Howard Solomon and I'm the general manager of operations for Gap in the region. On behalf of all involved in handling you and your group we're really pleased to learn you enjoyed yourself so much. Pls come back as there's much more to see and experience!