Travel Blog: Nature + Adventure + Beaches + Jungle + Hospitality = Costa Rica

Rafting from Pacuare Lodge - Epic departure!

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Pura Vida

Pura Vida means “pure life." In Costa Rica, it is a way of life. Costa Ricans (Ticos) use this term to say hello, goodbye, everything's great, and everything's cool, or even the things that are not cool, but happened.

This small country, nestled between Nicaragua and Panama and the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, is home to 5% of the total species on Earth. I had the pleasure of visiting the Caribbean side to experience the unique and rhythmic vibes on the east coast.

Adventure Time

Our adventure kicked off with adrenalin as we white water rafted into Pacuare Lodge. Perfectly positioned on the Pacuare River, this luxury eco-lodge offers a respite for those seeking authentic Costa Rica, active travel, romance, wellness and farm to table cuisine. Adventure enthusiasts are welcome to raft into (Class 1 & 2 rapids) and out of (Class 3 and 4) the lodge via the pristine waters of the Pacuare.

Pristine Rainforest

We then made our way via boat transfer to beautiful Tortuga Lodge, the only hotel in Tortuguero with its own private nature reserve. The resort staff could not have been more hospitable, eager to share the charms and mysteries of the pristine rainforest. Daily nature walks are led by experienced naturalist guides, who also lead tours to turtle nesting sites, boat rides and kayak trips up the Tortuguero River, twilight nature hikes and more.

Boutique Beach Vibes

Aguas Clara Boutique Hotel was our last refuge. I fell in love with this art filled hideaway that is the perfect oasis for yoga, couples, and friend groups. We used the hotel bikes to ride to the Puerto Viejo, an artistic haven with Bohemians, hippies and general good vibes. Their suites, each individually curated with art, are perfect for couples and the luxury bungalows can house families (no children under 7), retreats, and small groups.

Costa Rica Seasons

The different seaboards of Costa Rica offer two distinctive periods for travel, resulting in a year-round destination offering highlights for warm weather for you and your travel tribe. The country has micro-climates, so being knowledgeable about when to travel to different regions is important.

Picture: volcano adventures, pristine beaches, fishing, rainforest canopy tours, zip lining, white water rafting, surfing, yoga, coffee tours, snorkeling, and scuba all served up with amazing Costa Rican Hospitality.

Food Lovers

Hello fresh food lovers! Costa Rica cuisine is a delight and can accommodate every palate. We enjoyed fish, veggies, meats, fruits and spices. Ginger, curry, coconut, allspice, cinnamon and chili peppers were incorporated in the local dishes. Think fresh, colorful, local, flavorful, and delicious.

Let Trekese add Pura Vida to your next adventure!

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