5 amazing experiences in Guanacaste, Costa Rica (VIDEO)

During a visit to Costa Rica, you’ll quickly realize why locals frequently exclaim, “Pura Vida!” (Spanish for “Pure Life”) with the same level of fervor demonstrated by Hawaiians using the phrase,  “Aloha!” in everyday conversation: The whole country is Eden-like, and this is particularly the case in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province.

Costa Rica is one of Earth’s most biodiverse nations; it is also one where adventure, culture and cuisine abound. The majority of the lush Guanacaste region, about 3 hours northwest of capital city San José, is dedicated to parkland and agriculture (50% of the fruit exported from Costa Rica ends up in the USA, and a lot of that is pineapple!).

Here are 5 of the best things to experience during your visit:

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Glamp in a rainforest
Nestled within 600 acres of lush flora and fauna is the luxurious yet eco-friendly Rio Perdido Resort. Enjoy a private and unique Costa Rican rainforest experience including a host of adventure offerings such as zip lining, canyoning, hiking, white-water tubing and more. If you prefer a more sedate visit, take advantage of Rio Perdido’s spa and health club as well as getting “Zen” with their daily riverside yoga sessions, which are held in the middle of a jungle.

Dine like there’s no tomorrow
Brunching isn’t just a thing that’s epic here in the U.S.  Costa Rica boasts impressive foodie experiences as well. The Black Stallion Cafe & Saloon is the the place to be for brunch. Flavorful farm-to-table cuisine is the focus at this popular restaurant, with a great deal of their fruits, herbs and spices being sourced directly from their property. One other thing to note: Black Stallion is known throughout throughout the region for their BBQ including beef ribs, chicken, seafood and more. You won’t walk away disappointed, or with an empty stomach!

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Get in touch with the wild side
Rescue, rehabilitate and release is the mission at Nosara Refuge for Wildlife. The efforts of this rescue center which cares for injured and displaced animals found throughout Costa Rica are touching and inspiring. An educational visit provides an opportunity to understand the type of care that is provided firsthand, while also interacting with some of the animals up-close & personal.

Nourish your soul
Experience a unique aquatic experience at Sensoria Land of Senses. While meandering through groves of 30-foot trees and imposing canyons, you’ll find many pools and waterfalls emanating from warm thermal springs. The colors emanating from some of the pools are mesmerizing with their bright blue hues. Serenity and calm abound so if you’re someone that needs a natural approach to lower blood pressure or if you need to meditate with higher level peaceful surroundings, time spent and Sensoria is truly time well spent.

See a big show of nature
As Costa Rica’s youngest active volcano, Arenal Volcano puts on quite a show when it erupts. Even though Arenal hasn’t erupted in nearly 10 years, the volcano remains in a constant state of activity (most of it taking place 3 miles below its vent). Of course, its peaceful outlying areas provide a unique opportunity to enjoy some of its rich flora and fauna, which is unlike and other place on Earth!

 

 

Tagged: Costa Rica, Latin America, Videos