Is Costa Rica a Year Round Destination?

Talks with Turney: Is Costa Rica a Year Round Destination?

Costa Rica, the land of “Pura Vida” meaning pure life and all that encompasses it.  To me, that saying means enjoying what Costa Rica has to offer from surfing, hiking to waterfalls, dancing to reggaeton at a beach bar with an Imperial in-hand, or adventuring among sloths and monkeys at a National Park. It seems as though a big rumor has spread that Costa Rica is only a 6-month destination to visit. Therefore, I took a deep dive into learning about different things to do throughout the calendar year in various destinations of CR.

Costa Rica Enjoyable All Year

For the past year and a half, I have been traveling to CR regularly. Throughout that time, I’ve been fortunate to make friends with many locals from the hotels that we work with. They have welcomed me into their country and helped me uncover the best-known experiences that we can offer to all of you.

After speaking with several of these local experts, I was quickly reminded that the answer is absolutely yes. Costa Rica is a fantastic country to visit year-round. With 12 different climatic zones scattered throughout the country, there are windows of months where some regions are better than others. That is why it’s important to plan a Costa Rica journey with an expert.

You’ll see in the following text that from December – April Costa Rica is known as the “Dry Season” where the entire country is mostly sunny and dry. May – November is known as “Green Season.”

When I learned that it is possible to watch sea turtles nesting in Tortuguero National Park, or scuba dive/snorkel in sunny Puerto Viejo at Aguas Claras, both during the month of September – I was quite surprised. Meanwhile, at the same time of year, it is likely to be raining on the Pacific! I remember seeing online that parts of Jaco were flooding, meanwhile people at Aguas Claras were sending me pictures of sunshine and calm Caribbean waters.

So in this case, you truly need to know before you go.

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Sample Itineraries

Before I reveal all of these hidden gems, I’ve created 2 sample itineraries — one of them highlighting the Caribbean side of Costa Rica and the other focusing on the Pacific. Remember, both of these itineraries are great choices for the Dry Season, but they are slightly different for Green Season.

*Feel free to save and share this itinerary with your clients, you can replace the logo and contact details with your own in the header and footer. You can have this itinerary quoted by your DMC or Tour Operator of choice, or work with the properties direct. If you need help with this document or how to book, please email me.

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Weather in Costa Rica (Pacific Vs. Caribbean)

In Costa Rica, weather conditions around the country during Dry Season tends to be mostly the same. Sunny and dry. However, did you know that climate varies quite significantly between the west (Pacific) side of CR compared to the east (Caribbean) during Green Season? There are some major differences that I will help clear up. Use the table below to serve as a guide for navigating through each month.

Costa Rica Dry Season (December – May)

PROS

• Sunniest and driest time of year

• Epic sunsets

• Great surfing early in the dry season

• Livelier scene, everyone is out and about

• Less intense white-water rafting

• Great for snorkeling and swimming on the Pacific

• Still an abundance of wildlife at most National Parks besides Guanacaste & Nicoya Peninsula

CONS

• More crowds and tourists

• Pricier accommodations

• Limited availability; better to book in advance

• Pricier; less available flight options

• More traffic on the roads

• Longer customs lines at SJO

• Dusty and dry

  
  
  December – January

• Sunny & still a bit humid from Green Season

• Still an abundance of wildlife

• Good time for surfing beginner to advanced waves on Pacific & Caribbean

February – April

• Sunny and dry; least amount of rainfall throughout the country

• Less wildlife and flora & fauna in certain areas

• Smaller waves for surfing

May

• The month of May is technically the start of rainy season, this time of year is typically coined “shoulder season” where it is transitioning from months of dry weather to more rainfall. This is a great time of year to visit because you have the opportunity to get the best of both seasons.

Costa Rica Green Season (June – November)

PROS

• Less tourists

• Better rates at hotels and villas (more deals, too)

• Less lines for customs at SJO

• More flight availability

• Best time of year to catch bigger waves

• An abundance of wildlife on land and sea

• Flora and fauna blooming

• Rain cools things off

CONS

• Need a rain coat!

• Some regions get more rain than others during certain months

• Takes more knowledge and expertise to plan an itinerary

• Still hot and humid when not raining

June – August

• Great time to visit the Pacific — “Sunny mornings and rainy evenings” is the motto

• Abundance of wildlife on land and sea

• Biggest waves for surfing

• Whitewater rafting is more intense

• High season rates apply from July 1st – Aug 15th most places (summer vacation)

*The Caribbean side of Costa Rica — Tortuga Lodge, Pacuare Lodge, and Hotel Aguas Claras typically receive more rainfall during these months than the Pacific.

September – October

• This time of year is the best hidden secret in Costa Rica. The country remains in Rainy Season, but the Caribbean receives a mysterious break from heavy rainfall during this window.

• At Aguas Claras in Puerto Viejo, high season rates actually apply from Sep 21 – Dec 21; different from the rest of the country

• Small waves, calm ocean

• Best time to watch sea turtles nest and hatch in Tortuguero National Park

• Excellent conditions for whitewater rafting to Pacuare Lodge

November

• Similar to May, this is a great time of year to visit because it is the shoulder season, transition from Green to Dry. Again, opportunity to get best of both worlds.

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Why You Should Visit Costa Rica During Wildlife Season

Recently, the Cayuga Collection Executive Marketing team decided to create their own catchy phrase for “Rainy Season” to what they now call “Wildlife Season.” I was curious of what exactly that meant, so I reached out to Hans to see what his interpretation was.

“The idea sparked after I talked to Mauricio, one of the guides at Arenas del Mar.  I asked him the best time of year to see wildlife and he told me ‘The best time is when the rain stops. This is because all of the animals come out of their shelter to go looking for food and they become active.’ So, what happens in the wildlife season is that you have rain, but of course it doesn’t rain all the time. It just rains for a few hours and often it rains at night. Therefore, especially in the morning, the forest is just bustling with wildlife. At the same time there are turtles hatching, whales migrating, animals with their babies and much more. It is really a magical moment, not to talk about just the wildlife animals, but the flora and fauna how everything is coming back to life.

- Hans Pfister, Co-Founder of Cayuga Collection

Of course, there are many advantages to visiting Costa Rica in the dry season. In my opinion, seeing otherworldly sunsets during that time is worth the extra money, especially while many parts of the United States, Europe, and Canada are absolutely freezing cold/snowing. That alone can be a major factor on deciding on when to visit CR. Can’t blame people for wanting to escape the cold, especially when paradise is waiting for you.

However, for nature lovers and those looking to travel at a more tranquil pace with less crowds, the Green Season is perfect. The best part is that you have the opportunity to spend less, but experience something different. Local guides and hotel staff aren’t as busy during this time.

Wildlife season on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Guests at Arenas del Mar enjoying a tour of Manuel Antonio National with one of ADM’s local expert guides.

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Advice from the Locals –
“Visit Costa Rica During Green Season”

In this section, hear from the experts on the ground as they provide their take on why visiting Costa Rica during the Green Season is actually a great idea.

Tortuga Lodge —
Tortuguero National Park; northwest Caribbean

Juan introducing our group to the local family at Laguna 4. Shortly after, we feasted on local favorite foods, played soccer with the kids, and drank fresh coconut water!

Juan Molina Guadamuz is a certified naturalist guide at Tortuga Lodge who moved from Limon to Tortuguero at the young age of 2 and has been there ever since. The first time I met Juan was last June when I led a FAM Trip to Tortuga Lodge with a group of travel advisors. Juan led many of our tours and even took us kayaking through the less-traveled canals of Tortuguero National Park where we ended at a village. He introduced us to a family that lived on “Laguna 4” and they served us some local traditional favorite foods. It was a day to remember, and the entire group (myself included) was moved by how much tradition and culture is to be found in this Amazonia-like nook of Costa Rica.

Juan told us that he worked at Tortuga Lodge prior to when it was purchased by Böëna Wilderness Lodges. When Roberto and Luz created Böëna Wilderness Lodges and purchased Tortuga Lodge, they reached out to him because they wanted to make sure that the naturalist guides and staff members were local people from Tortuguero in order to maintain the authenticity of the experience. Meanwhile updating the accommodations to a Virtuoso-caliber level. A job well done!

So, I got in touch with Juan and asked him when his favorite time in Tortuguero National Park is, and what different months of the year bring to the destination? This is what he had to say:

“Look, I'm going to be very honest. For me, the most beautiful time to enjoy Tortuguero, a very diverse area… an area where there is a great variety of flora and fauna, the most diverse area in the country, right, but one of my favorites is from mid-September to mid-October. This is when there is less precipitation in the rainy season, it is also the time of the green turtle season. A time when you can see hatching of baby turtles, and possibly the mother’s laying eggs as well. Since this time is still the rainy season when the forest blooms the most, it’s very active time of year for bird migration and to see other species.

However, at Tortuga Lodge any time of the year you have possibilities of seeing animals. For example, from December to April there are possibilities of seeing three species of monkeys and two species of sloths. At the end of March through April is a nice time to see dolphins or even manatees. 50% of the birds in Costa Rica can be seen at Tortuguero National Park throughout the year. Other species include iguanas, many frogs, anteaters, sometimes jaguars and panthers. Great place year round”

- Juan Molina Guadamuz, Expert Naturalist Guide at Tortuga Lodge

Kayaking the canals of Tortuguero National Park in June 2022.

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Pacuare Lodge — Turrialba; Central Caribbean

I took a moment to speak with Natalia Fernandez from Turrialba. Natalia is the Director of Sales and her father is Roberto Fernandez, the owner of Pacuare Lodge. Therefore, she has essentially been visiting the lodge every year for her entire life. Since Pacuare is located in the central region of Costa Rica, but more towards the Caribbean, I was curious if the rainy season weather pattern was more similar to the Caribbean or Pacific conditions? This is what she had to say:

“We are influenced by the Caribbean weather, so September and October are great months to travel to Pacuare. It is very likely visitors will have sunny days, the color of the river is amazing, so it’s a great time! And the best prices!”

- Natalia Fernandez, Director of Sales for Böëna Wilderness Lodges

What Natalia means by “the color of the river” is that when there is a lot of rainfall in the nearby mountains, the river appears murky because of all the rain runoff going through the river, making its way to empty out to the Caribbean. Since rain holds off for a bit in September and October, the rafting conditions are favorable.

*Please keep in mind, that in order to whitewater raft into Pacuare Lodge, children must be age 9 or up. To whitewater raft out of Pacuare Lodge, children have to be 12 +

Rafting Conditions at Pacuare Lodge by Month:

• December – January: Best conditions for rafting; sunny, emerald green water. River is still running quickly from Green Season rains, still lots of wildlife

• February – April: Sunny conditions, emerald green water, river is running more slowly. Best time for beginners

• May: Due to shoulder season, this month can be a lot of fun. Expect sunny mornings and rainy evenings, the river will begin to run faster and get murkier later in the month.

• June – August: This is the time period that receives the most rainfall at Pacuare Lodge. During these months, you risk not being able to paddle out of Pacuare Lodge. If the river is flowing too fast and the water is too high, they will cancel the rafting (typically only happens about 5 times per year). However, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck, you just have to take a land transfer out rather than rafting.

• September – October: Hidden secret of Costa Rica! You get low season rates, but the Caribbean receives a brief break from rain during this time. Expect great river flow, emerald green water, and sunshine while the Pacific side of CR receives the most rainfall.

• November: Same with May, shoulder season conditions. Later in November you’re more likely to get less rain and slower river flow.

Quick video I made of the activities included with your stay at Pacuare Lodge.

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Lapa Rios — Osa Peninsula; southwest Pacific

Visiting Lapa Rios is like taking a leap into “the Jungle Book” where you will feel like Mowgli living amongst beautiful wild animals. At the moment you arrive at the Puerto Jimenez airport, it’s possible to see macaws feeding on an almond tree over the airport office of Lapa Rios. From there, a driver takes you through the Osa wilderness until arriving at Lapa Rios in Matapalo.

Something that is so astounding about Lapa Rios is that it located near primary forests, meaning that it has been untouched for centuries, so it is possible to see trees that are over 500 years old! It is also located on Golfo Dolce, one of the only Tropical Fjord’s in the America’s. Combine these two factors and you get a literal wildlife viewing wonderland. So, it is important to understand that you will be able to see plenty of wildlife year-round at Lapa Rios, but when is the best time of year to see certain animals and get the best weather conditions? We spoke to Osa-native Frank Barquero, who is also a certified volunteer Park Ranger, to learn more about when the best time to visit is.

“As a naturalist guide and a native of the Osa Peninsula, I can affirm that there are two times of the year that are my favorites. The first is the months of May to August. It is a time of transition, from the dry season to the rainy season. The first rains can occur between April and May, then it continues to rain intermittently. Even for the last decade August has been a month with relatively little rain. May is usually the last month we get to see North American migratory birds. It is incredible to see the males wearing their best clothes, with their colorful plumage, ready for the mating that will take place in the north of our continent. The forests turn a deeper and more intense green color due to the effect of the rains, and new plants and trees are born and grow at the beginning of the rainy season. Also, at the end of July and during August is when we can see humpback whales in the Golfo Dulce. This is not to mention the dolphins that usually inhabit this beautiful fjord. The months of September, October and part of November are almost always very rainy. It is very difficult to spot wildlife because it rains too much.

And the second season, my favorite, usually starts at the end of November and beginning of December. Since September and October we have, once again, the presence of migratory birds from North America. To this we add that the heavy rains begin to diminish and the days begin to become warmer and sunnier. Even January and February can be added to this second favorite season. Nature tourism is increasing admirably, and it is an incredible time for bird watching and wildlife in general.”

- Frank Chaves Barquero, Expert Local Naturalist Guide at Lapa Rios

One of the many wonderful photos that Frank shares with our team while he is leading tours at Lapa Rios! A smiling 3-toed sloth taking a nap in a tree.

The Osa Peninsula also provides critical nesting habitat for four species of sea turtles - olive ridleys, green turtles, hawskbills and leatherbacks. Visiting during nesting season gives guests a good chance to witness a hatching or participate in sea turtle research and protection with Osa Conservation, a partner of Lapa Rios. 

• Olive Ridleys - Nest from June-December

• Green Turtles - Nest from July-October

• Hawksbills - Nest from July-October

• Leatherbacks - Nest from March-September 

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Aguas Claras — Puerto Viejo, southwestern Caribbean

Puerto Viejo is an interesting Caribbean town for many reasons. In a sense, it operates by its own rules in terms of weather. In September and October while almost every Caribbean Island and beach town are threatened by hurricanes (and now seaweed), Puerto Viejo enjoys its most sunny and calm time of year.

Therefore, I took a moment to speak with Marvin Solorzano, a naturalist guide at Aguas Claras, about his favorite time of year in Puerto Viejo and what makes snorkeling during this time so special:

“For me, I think September or October because I love to enjoy snorkeling buddy. For that reason, I prefer those months. During this time, the sea is so flat which makes it perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving. It is like Summer here, and that is what makes it so special. Cahuita National Park is the best place to snorkel because it is the most protected and has the most reefs. You can also try behind Aguas Claras, Punta Uva beach maybe, but Cahuita National Park is definitely the best.”

- Marvin Solorzano, Expert Local Guide at Hotel Aguas Claras

Last June’s FAM Trip to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. This is after snorkeling at Cahuita National Park with Marvin, our guide at Aguas Claras. Exploring Puerto Viejo the Cayuga way!

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Senda Monteverde —
Monterverde Cloud Forest northwestern Pacific

“We do recommend people to visit Monteverde during Green Season because during these months is when you can see the real Monteverde, the most authentic, misty and rainy days of the year. During this time the town is less crowded, which allows visitors to see more wildlife on the reserves. The overall views are much nicer as everything is greener.”

— Allan Gamboa, Operations Manager at Senda

Overlooking the Nicoya Peninsula from Monteverde.

If you do happen to visit Senda Monteverde during the Dry Season, make sure you go E-Biking to Cerro Pinoccho, it is also an option to hike or horseback ride here. It is the best sunset in Monteverde! See so in the video below. Also, a pro-tip is to bring a rain jacket and sweater any time you visit Monteverde; it can get quite cold at night!

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Arenas del Mar —
Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific Coast

If you’re looking for a true “Costa Rica 101” experience where you get a little bit of everything that the green country has to offer, then Arenas del Mar is the answer. There are so many activities to choose from while staying at ADM in Manuel Antonio, it can be difficult to decide which ones. Therefore, I spoke with Elaine Solano, the Experience and Sustainability Manager at Arenas del Mar to see if there are certain activities that are better to do in the Green Season.

Are there any experiences that you can do at Arenas del Mar during the Green Season that you are unable to do in the Dry Season?

There are 2 key tours that you must do during a specific time (covering green season):

• Naranjo river rafting class III. Open from May to November

• Whale watching tour: Open from July to October

What is the best time of year to visit Manuel Antonio National Park?

• All seasons are good, however we suggest avoiding going during festive dates that are usually very crowded, such as Easter and Christmas.

• During these dates we recommend going during the afternoon, and during green season dates, is better to visit it in the morning.

When is the best time of year to surf at Arenas del Mar? 

• From May to November more less

No matter what time of year you visit Arenas del Mar or any of the Costa Rica properties in our portfolio, expected to. be greeted with a welcome smile! The staff members are truly what make the difference.

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Kura — Uvita, southern Pacific Coast

There simply is no bad time to visit Kurá, but if you’re looking for a honeymoon or romantic getaway with your loved ones, I would suggest to go during the Dry Season to guarantee an amazing sunset from the deck of your room or from the main lobby.

However, if you’re more adventurous, then Green Season is a great time to visit Kura because of the experiences that you can do. During the months from June – August is the best time to visit Nauyaca Waterfall when the falls are moving with sheer force from all of the rain. Meanwhile, this is the time when humpback whales migrate through Marino Ballena National Park. Sometimes you can see the whales from Kurá with binoculars, but my insider tip is to book a boat ride for the day to Caño Island. In August, I’ve seen humpbacks with their babies!

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PASHA — Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Pacific Coast

Pasha, the only standalone private-buyout villa in our portfolio, has many benefits of visiting during the Green Season. Clark and I were lucky enough to be some of the first guests to stay there towards the end of January 2022 during Dry Season. We quickly realized how fortunate we were to be visiting during that time of year. Sunshine all day, great waves to surf, direct views of the ocean from Pasha’s porch, unreal sunsets, and best of all it was not too dry yet.

View of the pool and ocean from Pasha

All that being said, it can be tough to inspire yourself to leave paradise at Pasha and explore the surrounding area. This 10-bedroom villa is located in Playa Hermosa, which is about 5 miles north of Santa Teresa town. Being away from the town is a total advantage because there isn’t as much noise or traffic. On the beach you will see surfers with their dogs, some photographers, or families hanging out. With all of this at your fingertips, it is hard to imagine why someone would want to leave, but the Nicoya Peninsula is teeming with wildlife to explore. I wanted to see what was outside of Pasha and Santa Teresa, so I went on a tour with Douglas Morales, Owner of Manakin Tours who helps manage excursions and activities for our guests at Pasha. Here is what he taught me:

“The Nicoya Peninsula is unique because we are in a transitional forest. Meaning we are located right in between the driest forest in Costa Rica which is the Guanacaste province, and the wettest area in the rain forest around Manuel Antonio region. 60% of the forest here is deciduous, which means they will usually lose their leaves when the rain stops in December. The leaves fall and cover all the ground to avoid evaporation and preserve more water underground near the roots. This is also when they will start blooming temporarily because birds migrate from North America to escape winter time and help pollinate the area. The other 40% of the trees are green and never lose their foliage. In May, when Green Season arrives, the deciduous trees grow their leaves again and you can see more wildlife.

 This region is also awarded as one of our planet’s Blue Zones. Some of the reasons being that our diet is very helpful and our low-stress farming lifestyle. The good relationships among families and friends within the community help to increase the age of people. Exercise, good diet, and good relationships are things that we take pride of and the region that we live in allows for us to live this lifestyle. For that reason we need to protect this region and ecotourism is a big help.”

— Douglas Morales, Owner of Manakin Tours

If there is no availability for Pasha during festive or you aren’t interested in paying high season rates, you should definitely consider staying at Pasha from May – September during Green Season. During this time, the town of Santa Teresa is not as busy with tourism, meaning the road is far less dusty. Expect to wear a bandana and sunglasses in March or April while going through town.

Also, our rates are much better in Green Season and wildlife is teeming! This is the best time to visit Montezuma waterfalls or any of the nearby National Parks. Another perk is the sea life – on a boat tour in one day you can see Humpback whales, schools of dolphins, sea turtles, bioluminescent waters, birds, and more! Check out this video of dolphins swimming in front of our boat during the month of September, this is right off the coast of Montezuma, about a 45-minute drive from Pasha.

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Come to Costa Rica, but make sure to use this as your guide for the best time to visit each destination.

Pura Vida!!

Our Recommended Reading List for Latin America

Our Recommended Reading List for Latin America

Want to dive into a country beyond a guidebook? Pick up one of these and it will have you planning your next trip to Latin America.


Chile:

Life and Death in the Andes: On the Trail of Bandits, Heroes and Revolutionaries by Kim Macquarrie consists of short stories along the spine of the Andes from Tierra del Fuego to Colombia.  The author’s ability to share so much knowledge and detail on cultural, historical, anthropological, geographical, environmental, aspects but in a way that leaves you not wanting to put the book down and as if you are along on a great adventure story.

The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende – The saga of a family across four generations that also traces the turbulent history of an unnamed Latin American country (which pointed similarity to Chile.)

Poetry of Pablo Neruda – Chile’s Noble prize winning poet and later politician. Favorites include Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair, The Captain’s Verses , Odes to Common Things and The Book of Questions  

Colombia:

One River by Wade Davis is a rollicking adventure story that crisscrosses the Andes from Colombia down to Peru, that touches on so many topics it’s hard to summarize in a paragraph.  Tie together botany, ethnobotany, natural history, indigenous tribes, world history, culture  and conquest and you have a book that will leave your head spinning and ready to jump on your next flight to the Andes.

Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez – Young and passionate lovers, Fermina and Florentino are separated by social class and grow apart to live separate lives throughout decades. After 50 years of marriage Fermina’s husband finally dies falling out of a mango tree (trying to retrieve his pet parrot) and Florentino confesses his undying love to her once again at the funeral, claiming to maintain a pure heart over the years despite hundreds of affairs and trysts with other women. (also a film)

The General In His Labyrinth by Gabriel Garcia Marquez – Fictional recollection of the last days of Simon Bolivar as he faces death and cynically reflects on his life. Darker than his other books.

Ecuador:

Huaoroni woman of Ecuador.

Savages by Joe Kane takes readers deep and intimately into the Ecuadorian Amazon to tell the tale of the Huaorani Tribe and their fragile tightrope walk between defending their ancestral traditions and history against the onslaught of missionaries, oil companies and the government.  A fantastic book about Ecuador.
 
The Panama Hat Trail by Tom Miller.  Most people don’t realize that “Panama” Hats are actually made in Ecuador.  This book not only tells you this but uses the Panama Hat as a literary focus to tell the tale of Ecuador from a unique angle.

Nicaragua:

The Jaguar Smile: Salman Rushdie’s first nonfiction book about his travels in Nicaragua in 1986, in the midst of America’s behind-the-scenes war against the Sandinistas. Great story telling about the people, politics, land and poetry of Nicaragua from a perspective that isn’t told in the United States.

Panama:

The Path Between the Seas by David McCullough. Thorough by engrossing epic that traces the creation of the Panama Canal and packs a ton of historical detail that provides the traveler with context for understanding Panama today.

Folks from the Pacific Northwest probably know Stevens Pass, named for railroad engineer John Stevens. But did you know that he was also Chief Engineer on the Panama Canal project from 1905-1907? His experience was instrumental in rebuilding the Panama Railway to serve as a tool to aid the Canal construction and he also convinced Theodore Roosevelt to pursue a plan of locks & dams rather than a sea-level Canal like the French had proposed.

Peru:

Last Days of the Incas by Kim Macquarrie is the definitive historical narrative of the discovery and conquest of the Incan Empire by the Spanish.  This is the one book to read if you are going to Peru.

Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams is a great adventure book about exploring the true “lost cities of the Incas” in modern times.  Part travelogue and part historical narrative, this book will get you excited about adventuring in the Incan heartland and introduce many characters still involved in the tourism landscape of Peru today.

Death in the Andes by Mario Vargas Llosa. Thriller, mystery & political allegory. Three male laborers go missing in the Andes and two Peruvian Army officers are sent to live among a remote village while they search for them. Weaves the modern terror of the Shining Path with ancient about monsters (pishtacos – a pale vampire) and black magic in the high Andes and the mistrust of people from different worlds.

Miscellaneous:  

A Neotropical Companion by John Kricher is the definitive handbook for anyone traveling to the tropical rainforests of Central or South America.  Any biologist or naturalist has this in their travel library and uses it until it falls apart apart and they are sent looking for a new one.

The Motorcycle Diaries – Ernesto Guevara’s Memoirs of nine months on the road in Latin America that shaped the future revolutionaries’ beliefs that the only way to correct institutionalized inequalities was to enable the poor to rise up in armed revolution.  

The War for Don Emmanuel’s Nether Parts by Louis De Berniers – Hilarious parody on magical realism and many of the themes common to Latin American literature. The first of a trilogy. Highly recommend all three if you enjoy the first one.

The Book of Embraces by Eduardo Galeano – Poems, short stories, illustrations and prose by the Uruguayan author – a mix of autobiography, political commentary and magical realism.

Did we omit a book that should be on this list? Leave a comment and let us know!

The Everyday Actions of Earth Day Heroes Across Latin America

The Everyday Actions of Earth Day Heroes Across Latin America

Every year, Earth Day serves as a fantastic annual reminder to recycle more, plant a tree and turn off the water when brushing one’s teeth. But what about the other 364 days of the year? When the crazy news cycle immediately pulls our attention in 10 million other directions, who is still prioritizing our planet’s wellbeing and keeping conservation & sustainability top of mind as daily guiding principles for operation?    

In many ways, the travel industry has taken up this mantle, being uniquely poised to expose people with the means to travel to our seemingly dim global reality of pollution, habitat destruction and climate change. But it also shines a strong light on practices that prioritize environmental conservation, sustainable operations and projects that preserve local culture while also providing employment in impoverished areas.  

We are lucky to partner with some of the boldest thought leaders and action takers in Latin America when it comes to protecting & bettering the planet. Changing people’s mindsets, taking real action against plastic and waste managements, creating protected wildlife corridors and creating jobs while preserving unique local culture. Here’s a roundup of some of the most impactful sustainability initiatives that your guests can experience at our hotels & lodges in Latin America:

1.)   Promoting Appropriate Luxury at Galapagos Safari Camp

 When Galapagos Safari Camp founders Stephanie Bonham-Carter and Michael Mesdag first climbed a tree and took in the mesmerizing view of the Santa Cruz highlands, they knew they wanted to create a low-impact hospitality experience connects guests with the fragile nature of the Galapagos Islands rather than another predictable hotel.  Their philosophy of “Appropriate Luxury” applies to every decision they make in operating the Galapagos Safari Camp, from relying on rainwater collection to growing their own food and utilizing solar power whenever possible. Questions like “Why don’t the safari tents have AC?” or “Why doesn’t your lodge have Jacuzzi tubs or televisions?” are an opportunity to engage potential guests in a dialogue about the environmental costs of importing the resources (diesel generators and fresh water) to provide these “expected luxuries.” And begs the question that, as visitors to this natural sanctuary, why do we feel entitled to certain amenities that the resident population has learned to adapt without?

 “Consider for a moment that the animals on land have adapted to the lack of freshwater. Giant tortoises can go for months without a reliable source of water, sea lions depend on the fish they eat for their daily intake and Darwin’s finches wait until the wet season to mate.”

GSC invites guests to adjust their own vision and expectations of what “should” be available and considered luxury, setting aside notions of ordinary opulence in exchange for truly engaging with a different and unique environment.  Visit their website for a deeper dive into the concept of Appropriate Luxury.

2.)   Waging War Against Waste at Machu Picchu: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

 What happens when an isolated archeological wonder without overland highway access attracts nearly 1.6 million visitors a year? A massive amount of waste is created and left behind, so much so that in 2016 the waste management crisis at Machu Picchu contributed to the Inca citadel being evaluated for UNESCO’s list of ‘World Heritage in Danger.’

To manage the impact of trash left behind by visitors, Inkaterra & beverage manufacturer AJE group have partnered to launch an organic waste treatment plant in Machu Picchu Pueblo.  This will make the area the first in Latin America to manage 100 percent of its solid waste through pyrolysis, which decomposes the waste at high temperatures without oxygen. The plant has the capacity to process seven tons of waste per day to generate bio-coal, a natural fertilizer that will help with the reforestation of the Andean cloud forest and contribute to agricultural productivity in Machu Picchu.

This is in addition to other initiatives that the Inkaterra Association has already spearheaded in the region.  To address the plastic waste left by tourists, they already operate a compacting and recycling center that  processes a staggering average of 14 tons of plastic daily.  And to discourage local communities, hotels and restaurants from disposing their used cooking oil into the Vilcanota River, Inkaterra helped build a biodiesel production plant to process used oil. The plant produces 20 gallons of biodiesel daily from nearly 6,000 liters of used oil a month.

Inkaterra — with properties in the heart of the Machu Picchu cloud forest, deep in the Amazon rainforest, in the city of Cusco and in the Sacred Valley of the Incas — creates authentic travel experiences, while preserving biodiversity and local cultures in Peru.

 
3.)   Protecting Pumas Beyond the National Park: Awasi Patagonia

Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park is considered the best place on the planet on see the elusive puma thanks to an abundance of juicy guanacos to feed on and protection from hunters within park boundaries since 1972. An estimated 50 cats currently live within the park and studies indicate that their numbers are on the rise.

But what happens to the big cats when they roam beyond the borders or TDP where they are not protected?  Close to 100 pumas are killed each year in Chilean Patagonia, mostly by sheep ranchers offering a bounty payout on puma skins.  And as the puma population grows, along with the annual number of visitors to Torres del Paine, these solitude-seeking predators are more likely to wander beyond their invisible safety net.

To counteract this issue, Awasi Patagonia and the Awasi Puma Foundation have created a 11,000 acre protected corridor adjacent to the park, turning a former sheep farming estancia into a private reserve. Native grasslands and shrubs have been allowed to regrow after years of overgrazing and the private status of the reserve keeps human visitors to a minimum, allowing free and safe reign to its rightful inhabitants: guanacos, pumas, condors and other species.  

While the Awasi Puma Foundation is relatively new, its impact is already measurable. Earlier this month, a guide at Awasi Patagonia spotted two rare Geoffroy’s Cats kittens on the private reserve, indicating that this seldom seen feline is thriving in the protected corridor adjacent to the park.  Guests of Awasi can join a biologist researcher and guide on a special puma tracking excursion in the private reserve.

4.)   Preserving Cultural Heritage: El Otro Lado & Bahia Portobelo Foundation

 Portobelo was once the busiest city in the New World and the point for all trade between Europe and of South America, including the inhuman trade of enslaved Africans.  A small group of slaves – the Cimarrones - won their freedom and established their own communities in and around Portobelo where they preserved and celebrated their African heritage.

With the creation of the Panama Railroad and Panama Canal, Portobelo’s usefulness as a trade port was eliminated. While economic opportunities flourished in Panama City and along the Canal Zone, the gap between the country’s rich and poor widened, aided by racism and little government support for infrastructure and education in remote areas. Along the Caribbean Coast, areas with indigenous or minority populations such as Portobelo were cut off from the prosperity of the other side of the country.  Panama today is one of great contrasts and an income inequality comparable to Brazil and South Africa.

Founded in 1993 as the Portobelo Workshop, today’s Fundación Bahía de Portobleo, supported in part by El Otro Lado, works to improve the local quality of life by promoting socioeconomic projects within the community that also preserve & celebrate the community’s African identity.  Guests at El Otro Lado are invited to discover the soul of Portobelo’s Congo Culture through drumming lessons or cultural dance performances with local students at the Escuelita del Ritmo (Little School of Rhythm) or art and woodcarving workshops at the art studio. Today, the foundation supports over 100 local students with free classes in music, dance, art and educational support.  The facilities house five music rooms, a dance room, workshops, study halls, English and computer labs, a recording studio and a multi-use room for recitals, concerts and cinema. Much of the support comes through tourism, and the two hotels and restaurants fully run by the foundation, as well as El Otro Lado, account for the employment of over 100 local people.

Latest News from the Properties - December 2018

Latest News from the Properties

PERU

After a decade of innovation and setting the bar for exclusive & immersive luxury experiences on Lake Titicaca, Titilaka is in the midst of several renovation & expansion projects. These are being conducted in such a way as to not affect guests staying at the lodge and are set to conclude by mid 2019.

Chief among the improvements are:

Titilaka Corner Rooms

• Outdoor hot tub and new-state-of-art motors for faster boats will be available (completed in November 2018)

• All rooms, common and social areas as well as terraces are being redecorated while corner rooms are revamped with additional amenities

• New services are being implemented including complimentary access to airport VIP lounge for all guest, Wi-Fi in all the hotel's vehicles and boats and enhanced culinary experiences are being put in place.

Titilaka is also adjusting their rates next year, the first increase since 2014. For clients desiring the utmost in privacy and flexibility, this is a great thing as the Titilaka Experience can now be booked on an all-inclusive, private basis. The traditional Titilaka Experience will also remain available for guests who want to participate in set excursions on a shared basis.

Lastly, the team behind Titilaka has announced plans to expand, with new lodges planned for Arequipa (2019) and Cusco (TBD). You can view a full presentation on Titilaka’s upgrades & changes here.

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Inkaterra’s Hacienda Urubamba, a Virtuoso Property, recently celebrated the opening of Mayu Spa (“River” in Quechua) in August. With a rustic chic design inspired by traditional Andean architecture, Mayu Spa is located on a low hill between I Hacienda Urubamba’s organic orchard and an enchanting pepper tree forest. Treatments are based in 100% natural products derived from native medicinal herbs; the new wellness center has a plunge pool, four private therapy rooms and a dry sauna and offers a variety of massages, therapies, reflexology and facials. For more details, check out their blog post on Mayu Spa.

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Some say that you hear the best stories while sitting at the bar. Axel Romero at Hotel B, the cocktail wizard who was recently awarded the Best Peruvian Bartender 2018 at the Summum 2018 Awards, knows the value of a good bar yarn and uses these as inspiration behind his cocktails. For this experienced bartender, each drink is a chance to write an exquisite and stimulating story in which spirits, juices and spices are cast in the leading roles. He is passionate about his career: after previously working at Astrid & Gastón for several years, he is now at Hotel B where he is committed to making each one of his drinks an experience. Read more about Axel and other winners of the Summum Awards (like the James Beard awards for Peru) here.

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COLOMBIA

The team at Hacienda Bambusa has been busy in 2018, creating new activities & excursions and elevating the details of the 8 en suite bedrooms within the Hacienda. New photos are available via dropbox in the Hacienda Bambusa image library and the Activities Book can be easily shared with guests to help them select their desired excursions in advance. Choose the Best of Bambusa option for an all-inclusive experience and a great value for your guests.

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COSTA RICA

To cope with increasing tourism in Manuel Antonio, Arenas Del Mar continues to pioneer new experiences for their guests to enjoy in the area. Coming soon are early morning visits to a private nature reserve with great wildlife viewing and mountain biking in the hills above Quepos.

Latitude 10 Resort in Santa Teresa closed for part of October & November to undergo renovations and has reopened looking better than ever! New king-size canopy beds in each suite, soft upgrades & in-room amenities, a completely revamped menu and on-site experiences (like complimentary on-site cooking classes and beachfront yoga) have completely elevated the Latitude 10 experience.

Kurà recently welcomed a new Spa Director (formerly of Hacienda Alta Gracia) and has completely revamped the menu at Spa Shà in addition to creating new breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Ask about full board options for guests, available for booking on request.

Lapa Rios Lodge has added themed dinner nights to their menus - including BBQ, Dock to Dish Night (make your own ceviche) and “Comida Tipica” to showcase local foods enjoyed in Costa Rica. This gives guests staying 3 or 4 nights an excellent variety in meal choice and is also fun & interactive for families.

Lastly, the Cayuga Collection team has been hard at work opening Senda Monteverde, a new boutique lodge just a short walk from town and adjacent to a private Cloud Forest Nature Reserve. Senda officially opens on December 15 and to celebrate, is offering 10% when booked in conjunction with another Cayuga property. Details and restrictions are found via the link.

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ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS

If you have any clients looking for a last minute "festive season" option, we just had some unforeseen prime date cancellations at Hacienda Zuleta in Ecuador.  Couldn't think of a more welcoming place to be than with the Galo-Plaza family over the holidays - hiking and horseback riding during the day and feasting on farm fresh cheese and wine by the fireplace in the evening.  You can either contact your DMC or email mariafernanda@haciendazuleta.com for updated availability over Christmas, New Years and into January.

If you are unfamiliar with Hacienda Zuleta, check out the video below for an overview on this gem of a property. If you would like a copy branded with your own logo as an intro, please send Clark your logo and he can provide it to you.

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Mashpi Lodge has always maintained a great blog, but recent posts are particularly helpful for travel advisors from a sales perspective.

Seasonal Weather, Birds & Animals at Mashpi

What’s the Ride to Mashpi Lodge Like? (Good hour by hour breakdown of the journey from Quito to Mashpi)

Family Friendly Activities at Mashpi Lodge (Divided into younger children, older children and teens)

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Galapagos Safari Camp owner Stephanie Bonham-Carter recently wrote a great blog post about “Appropriate Luxury”, a concept we applaud and support across all of our properties that operate in remote and fragile environments. Creating a luxury guest experience that is equally respectful of the natural world is a balancing act, and there’s a good reason you won’t find imported fish or out of season produce on the menu or air conditioning in your tented suites.

Check out the full post here: Appropriate Luxury in the Galapagos - The Safari Camp Approach and share this with your clients.

Galapagos Safari Camp also recently become of the Traveller Made consortia in November.

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Do you have travelers staying at Casa Gangotena who like to get out and explore on their own?

Share these “Three Recommended Walks Through Quito’s Old Town” for suggestions on great self-guided walking tours to local markets, churches, down interesting side streets and to beautiful vista points. Quito’s Historic Center is best explored on foot and the staff at Casa Gangotena are always happy to suggest activities tailored to your client’s interests.

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CHILE & ARGENTINA

Due to last minute cancellations, Awasi Atacama has space in January, which was previously 100% full.  Here are the available dates for Awasi Atacama in January 2019. 

6-10 January
10-15 January
14-17 January
18-23 January
25-28 January
28-31 January

Contact your DMC or info@awasi.cl to book. Additionally, Awasi Atacama welcomed new General Manager, Nicolás García to the lodge this month.

Need a moment of calm during the always busy month of December? Transport yourself into nature with this video from Awasi Iguazu.

Juan Pablo Culasso was born blind. He taught himself how to identify birds by listening to their song. He has become one of the world’s most respected bird experts; using just his ears, not his eyes. Listen to some of his recordings in Awasi Iguazú: 

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NICARAGUA

It was a hard year for Nicaragua & for Jicaro Island Lodge. After enjoying a hugely successful year in 2017, tourism in Nicaragua came to a standstill following political protests & violence that began in April of 2018. Jicaro Island was forced to suspend guest operations for a few months, though as many staff as possible remained employed throughout the temporary closure. Laying people off in a time of crisis only contributes to a desperate spiral and owner Karen Emmanuel used her personal resources to keep staff on the payroll through six months of closure.

With a quiet but emotional celebration on November 15, Jicaro Island Lodge officially reopened their doors to guests and Karen was there to share in the experience. In the video below, Karen shares her love for Nicaragua, especially the people who make Jicaro Lodge and the country so enchanting. Special reopening rates are available - contact your local DMC or reservations@jicarolodge.com.

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PANAMA

We’re thrilled to welcome El Otro Lado Private Retreat into our portfolio. Located across the bay from Portobelo (which just received UNESCO recognition for the significance of the local Congo Culture), this colorful hideaway is an ideal base for exploring the Caribbean reefs, beaches and rainforests of Portobelo National Park, learning the fascinating legends of the likes of Sir Francis Drake and the pirate Henry Morgan, and immersing oneself in the colors, rhythms and flavors of the Congo Culture. Cozy details in the rooms and public spaces and a new wellness program also make it a perfect retreat to relax & recharge.

New in 2019, El Otro Lado will offer all-inclusive rates (full board, excursions, on-site activities & wellness experiences) and we’ll be hosting an extensive webinar on all of the changes and updates soon. In the meantime, enjoy this short video highlighting the best of Portobelo & El Otro Lado.

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Panama is hot right now and Isla Palenque has been enjoying a fair amount of press. Check out the latest Town & Country issue for their guide on Where to Travel in 2019, featuring Panama and Isla Palenque.

Isla Palenque also recently announced their Dock to Dish program, making it the first hotel to Panama offer certifiably sustainable, community-sourced seafood through the award-winning program out of Montauk, NY. Learn more about the mission of Dock to Dish via the link to their website.

Ten Reasons to Choose Kurà Design Villas

Ten Reasons to Choose Kurà Design Villas

In June 2018, Kurà Design Villas joined Virtuoso, becoming the first designer boutique hotel within Costa Rica to join the Virtuoso Consortium.   We know that your Virtuoso travelers will love the adults-only experience on this property, but the location in Uvita always elicits questions. Specifically, why would I go to Uvita (and where is it) and what is there to do at Kurà?  Following are just 10 of the reasons to choose Kurà Design Villas for your clients.

1.) Because of These Views

Kurà is situated above Uvita on Costa Rica's Southern Pacific Coast, overlooking Marino Ballena National Park below.  When the tide retreats, a huge sand bar in the shape of a whale's tail is revealed. Fittingly, this waters surrounding the whale's tail offer some of the best Humpback whale watching on the planet.

2.) Whales Galore

People always think of Alaska, Baja and Antarctica when it comes to whales, but Costa Rica and Marino Ballena National Park in particular offers the longest Humpback whale watching season in the world.  For 8 months out of the year, both Southern hemisphere humpbacks traveling from Antarctica and Northern hemisphere humpbacks traveling from Alaska frequent this segment of Costa Rica's Pacific coast where they mate, give birth and raise their calves. The best time to visit for whale-watching is mid-July to October and December to March. Dolphins, orcas and sea turtles are also visible here year round. 

3.) Because You Love Design That is Clean, Beautiful and Sustainable  

Costa Rica has a plethora of hotels with ocean views and beautiful rooms, but there is nothing like Kurà.  The passion project of biologist Alejandra Umaña and architect Martin Wells, both Costa Rican, Kurà is a locally owned property that was crafted from local and sustainable materials and operates with minimal environmental impact. Design elements are modern and minimalist (instead of cluttered and palm thatched) and immerse guests the nature surrounding them through the floor to ceiling glass walls.  The hotel operates almost entirely "off the grid"; solar panels provide electricity and heat, water is sourced from a nearby spring (and then recycled for garden needs) and a greenhouse supplies produce and herbs for the kitchen. 

4.) Experience the Wild Osa Peninsula - For the Day

For those who want to sample the wild & pristine rainforests of the Osa Peninsula & Corcovado National Park by day, but return to a world of pampering and creature comforts at night, Kurà is for you. The Osa Peninsula has been hailed as one of the "most biologically intense place on the planet" by National Geographic, and accounts for an astounding 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity in just 0.001% of its surface area. 

Guests at Kurà can either travel by boat (1.5 hours) as part of a small group to the San Pedrillo Ranger station for a day of hiking along an array of the Corcovado's trails or charter a small plane or helicopter to explore the park with a private guide. Either way you're sure to see some of Corcovado's legendary wildlife - macaws, sloths, tapirs, all four species of monkey and more!

(For travelers who want more rainforest immersion, send them to Lapa Rios or combine Lapa Rios with Kura for the best of southern Costa Rica.) 

5.) Because The Pool is Super Cool

Where else can you perch on submerged benches to gather around a "bonfire" that is floating on top of the water, listen to your favorite tunes while you swim laps underwater or lose track of the separation between the ocean and the sky? Kurà's infinity pool (chemical free and designed by Wells) is both out of this world and totally instagrammable.

6.) No Kids Allowed

Whether you are leaving the kids at home to rediscover and reconnect on a romantic trip with just your partner, or because you elected to not have children and don't want to spend your vacation being surrounded by them. Even adults need their own clubhouse, and at Kurà, the only rule is No Kids Allowed. (Unless of course you do a private takeover of the entire hotel. Then they'll let you write your own rules.)  

Does anyone actually hang out like this?

Silvia Solis - General Manager at Kura

7.) Staff Who Makes You Feel at Home

From salsa dancing siblings (three siblings from the Leiva family) to sweet Lalo who carefully shuttles guests between Kurà and the beaches of Uvita, Kurà employs nearly 40 staff directly from the local community.  They are a tight knit group, and when you stay at Kurà, you're part of the family.  Expect friendly and anticipatory service, strong and delicious drinks delivered poolside, insight into Costa Rican customs and indigenous culture and plenty of sincere pura vidas!  You'll may initially go for Kurà's views and style but you'll return for the staff. 

(Kurà Design Villas and all of the hotels within the Cayuga Collection recently collected a prestigious Tourism for Tomorrow Award in the People Category, an honor that recognizes outstanding achievement in sustainable hospitality. It's an extremely tough award to win...within our portfolio of hotels, only Inkaterra has one as well.) 

8.) Daily Beach Access is a Breeze

While Kurà isn't a beachfront property, they do offer daily complimentary shuttle service to the wild and un-manicured beaches of Marino Ballena National Park. Rent a board in Uvita and surf the easier beach breaks, walk out to the tip of the Whale's Tail formation at low tide or scan the ocean for surfacing cetaceans. Just don't expect lounge chairs and beach service - this is a National Park and feels more like the set for 'Castaway' than a Sandals resort. 

Remote beaches revealed at the Whale's Tail during low tide

9.) Because you Can Go Birding From Bed. 

Or practice your Spanish. Learn about the native Boruca indigenous group, carvers of the gigantic wooden masks that adorn Kurà's walls and Diablitos Bar. Try your hand at preparing ceviche, craft cocktails and patacones. Take a yoga class.  Or relax and enjoy a deep tissue massage at Spa Shà...all without leaving Kurà. 

And if you do want to head out and explore your surroundings, the staff is happy to arrange a multitude of vetted excursions with local guides.  Check out the Tour Book to learn more about what is available in the area. 

Discover the canopy and its winged occupants right outside your bedroom with bedside field guides and high quality binoculars.

10.) Because You Don't Even Need to Leave Your Room to Have Fun

Huge double showers with 'creative' lighting features. Hammocks built for two. Seclusion and privacy. Kurà Design Villas was made for romance. Use your imagination... 

For 2018-2019 Virtuoso Exclusive Amenities at Kurà include:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily a la carte breakfast for two

• One complimentary 3-course lunch or dinner for two people, excluding alcohol, tax and gratuituy

• Poolside "Mini Massages" (20 minutes) for two people

• Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability

To include Kurà in your clients' next trip to Costa Rica, work with the hotel directly at reservations@kuracostarica.com or contact your preferred On-Site or Tour Operator and let them know that you are a Virtuoso agent. 

Updates & Enhancements at Arenas Del Mar

Updates & Enhancements at Arenas Del Mar

Arenas Del Mar, the only luxury beachfront resort in Manuel Antonio, celebrated ten years in
November 2017. To commemorate a decade of creating exceptional holiday memories in one
of Costa Rica’s most sought after destinations, the resort further elevated the guest experience
with refurbishments and improvements both small and large. Read on for a complete review of
what’s new and not-to-miss the next time you book Arenas Del Mar for your clients.

El Mirador Lobby & Lounge

The Mirador Lobby and Lounge has a whole new look. Teak replaced bamboo in the public spaces, creating an open-concept floor plan that is lighter and brighter, with more areas carved out for relaxing and lounging. There’s also a new tienda highlighting locally made products and a welcoming Concierge Desk where the dedicated team is at the ready to arrange tours in and around Manuel Antonio or confirm dinner reservations.

In the lounge, you’ll find a fully redesigned bar where friendly bartenders will mix your
favorite cocktails, or encourage you to step behind the counter and master the art of mixology
for yourself. Within view of the bar is a glassed-in entertainment room, perfect for weekly screenings of kid-friendly movies, or reserving for private events such as a family-reunion screening or a small meeting.

The pool overlooking Manuel Antonio National Park has been expanded, with an infinity edge
and comfortable teak loungers across the deck for more refined relaxation. And while it may appear that traditional palm thatch still makes up the roof of El Mirador, look closer and you’ll see that this palm-frond look-alike is actually a recycled plastic material. Manufactured by Palmex, a Canadian company that repurposes the plastic used in fruit shipments, this plastic roofing does not contribute to deforestation, is fully recyclable, lasts 20 years and doesn’t break down or attract bugs like traditional palm thatch. 

Swanky teak loungers...

And sustainable recycled Palmex thatching.

Restaurants and Menus Revamped

El Mirador, the fine-dining option with views over Playa Espadilla and Manual Antonio, has reopened with a new menu, a rotating true catch-of-the-day selection courtesy of the Dock to Dish program and a continually evolving list of International Guest Chefs. This culinary program invites top talent from around the world to come to Arenas Del Mar, use their imaginations and put their hallmark twists on local Costa Rican ingredients. Past participants include Tory McPhail & Juan Carlos Gonzalez (Commander’s Palace), Chip Roman (Blackfish), and Jennifer Carrol (Requin & Bravo’s Top Chef Season 6 Finalist) among others.

Chef Pablo Bonilla recently visited Arenas del Mar to highlight the gastronomy of Costa Rica's indigenous Bribrí, Cabécar and Boruca tribes

Beachfront dining continues at Playitas, which has introduced themed dining evenings such as “Costa Rican Street Food” or Beach BBQ for a greater variety of casual and kid-friendly options that will still please foodie parents. A revamped regular menu is also in the works and will be released soon.

 

Room Soft Refurbishments

All Ocean View & Ocean Breeze Superior Guest Rooms and Suites now have teak furniture inside and on decks – the darker wicker and bamboo is gone. A complimentary mini-bar stocked daily with assorted typical “Tico Snacks” as well as local beverages is standard, and thankfully close at hand when a sudden 'snack attack' happens after a day of swimming and playing on the beach. 

While all rooms are fully air-conditioned, guests can fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping the shore; sliding screen doors feature interior locks to allow the breeze in but keep the rainforest critters out. In the Suite Categories, living rooms adjacent now feature trundle beds in lieu of pull out sofa beds. This means that two children can comfortably sleep on separate mattresses in the living room while adults can share a king bed. Remember, kids 11 and under are FOC when sharing a suite with adults.  Throughout 2018, Arenas Del Mar will continue to update their rooms. Plans include replacing veranda railings with ‘infinity glass’ and installing new bathroom fixtures.

Activities & Wellness

Manuel Antonio is adventure central on Costa Rica's Pacific coast and Arenas Del Mar provides
more in-house activities than anywhere else. New kid-friendly programs are implemented weekly, including movie nights, mask painting, themed food evenings, beachfront soccer and volleyball games, trivia and other interactive experiences led by the amazing staff, giving parents a quick break to enjoy a quiet cocktail or meal together.

Arenas Del Mar recently debuted their new Surf and SUP school. Two enthusiastic instructors
from the local community teach surfing basics on soft and sandy Espadilla Beach where guests have access to a whole fleet of new soft top boards in a variety of sizes.  Book a private lesson or learn with a small group in the gentle waves on this sandy and soft stretch of beach. Kayak and snorkeling tours, led by in-house naturalist guides are also under developments and will debut soon.

Lastly, weekly yoga and fitness classes are now available on a complimentary basis. Join one of the on-site instructors for a morning cardio burn on the beach or stretch it out next to El Mirador Pool. Complimentary Group Yoga is offered 5x/week during peak season and 3x/week during the Green Season. Private instruction is always available for an additional fee.  A schedule of classes is posted in El Mirador Lobby or guests can just inquire with any of the staff to learn more. 

Summer Trips that Transform - Learn the Art of Naturalist Guiding at Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Learn the Art of Naturalist Guiding at Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Great For: Nature Lovers, Educational Travel, Aspiring Guides, Birders

Is your ultimate dream to identify wildlife with the soothing accuracy of David Attenborough? Whether you are a budding biologist, a hardcore nature enthusiast or a wannabe birder, the guiding pros at Lapa Rios can take your identification and interpretation skills to the next level with their 5-night Lapa Rios Guide School, available in May, June and August of 2018.

 

Under the careful tutelage of some of the very best rainforest guides in the business, learn what it takes to be a naturalist guide with the wild Osa Peninsula as your classroom. Distinguish your squirrel from your spider monkeys. Identify the calls of toucans amongst the jungle chorus. Know your medicinal flora and your venomous fauna. Tap into almost 50 years of cumulative guiding knowledge, learning indispensable techniques while out hiking nature trails. Interact with the community and experience the Osa Peninsula from a new perspective and learn about conservation challenges and initiatives in what National Geographic calls the most biologically intense place on earth.  Your efforts for the week are capped off with an official “Guide School Graduation” and certificate of achievement.

Prices for this 5-night/ 6-day natural immersion start at $1,760 per person. The Lapa Rios Guide school is limited to 8 persons and minimum age of 14 years of age.  To arrange this experience for your clients, agents should contact should contact their preferred local DMC or Tour Operator.

Excellent wildlife viewing right from your own private balcony

Summer Trips that Transform, Inspire & Enlighten

Summer Trips that Transform, Inspire & Enlighten

For today’s traveler, the summer holiday season isn’t just about relaxing on a beach with a
frozen cocktail or soaking up sunshine somewhere. Increasingly, travelers want to utilize their
vacation time to learn a new skill, pursue personal development or tackle a physical challenge that leave them transformed, with lasting habits and a changed outlook on life and the world around them.

If you have clients – both families and adults – that are in search of something immersive, educational or somewhat off the grid over the North America summer months, look no further than Latin America. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite picks for experiences that will challenge & enlighten while also offering extra value due to the off-peak time frame for each destination.

Use the links below to access the individual posts about each destination and experience. 

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Learn the Art of Naturalist Guiding at Lapa Rios, Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

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Chase Winter and Ski a Volcano at Hacienda Hotel Vira Vira, Pucon, Chile

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Get Comfortable in the Saddle at Hacienda Zuleta, Imbabura, Ecuador   

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Ride the Waves at Latitude 10 in Santa Theresa, Costa Rica

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Experience the Cacao Harvest at Hacienda Bambusa, Armenia, Colombia

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Seasonal Savings in the Atacama Desert, Awasi Atacama, Chile

The Cayuga Collection - Leaders in Sustainable Luxury

With the expansion of this portfolio into Central America, we’re excited to welcome six new properties in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama that are all operated by the Cayuga Collection, an industry leader in providing sustainable luxury hospitality experiences. 

Founders Hans Pfister and Andrea Bonilla are both graduates of Cornell University’s Hotel School in Ithaca, New York and dedicated ecotourism professionals. (Hans actually began his career managing the Hampton Inn at the San Jose Airport where he made waves in the late 80s by eliminating single use bath products in favor of refillable bottles.) Together, Andrea and Hans started Cayuga in 1994 with the goal to blend true luxury travel with practices that are both environmentally friendly and beneficial to the local communities.  They now manage nine individually owned hotels across the region, of which we are currently representing six. These are Jicaro Island Ecolodge, Latitude 10 Resort, Arenas del Mar , Kurà Design Villas, Lapa Rios Ecolodge and Isla Palenque, a new private island resort along Panama's north Pacific coast. In 2017 Cayuga won the National Geographical World Legacy Award in the Earth Changers category.

Andrea and Hans - Founders of the Cayuga Collection

While there is some variation across the properties, the following are hallmarks of the entire collection:

No Single Use Plastic Bottles or Straws: Tap water at the Cayuga hotels is always treated and filtered to international standards and is 100% safe for human consumption. Guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles to refill or can borrow one for the duration of their visit. Additionally, the Cayuga properties did away with plastic drinking straws several years ago, replacing these with a robust, compostable bamboo option which was the brainchild of a gardener at the Harmony Hotel in Nosara. Needless to say, he’s not gardening anymore.

Bamboo straws in cocktails at Jicaro Island

Sustainability on Display: A mission of the Cayuga Hotels is to educate guests on their sustainability practices, even the unglamorous and often overlooked ones like composting and carefully monitoring exact water to load ratios for optimal energy efficiency in the laundry room.  Each property offers a complimentary “Behind the Scenes” sustainability tour to showcase the various ways green practices are implemented. This ranges from using solar panels to heat water to raising pigs to break down compostable scraps in order to produce biogas.

Go Natural:  You won’t find trimmed grass lawns or perfectly paved walkways at these properties. Most of the hotels exist within the tropical rainforest so lush, natural vegetation is cultivated and in many cases, was left intact and undisturbed when the property was constructed. This equates to more wildlife, especially birds and monkeys who feed on the fruits of established trees.

Natural vegetation means more wildlife overhead or right outside your window

Employ Local: Across the 9 properties and including headquarters in San Jose, Cayuga employs over 400 individuals from Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Staff at each hotel are 80%-100% from the local community immediately surrounding the property. All positions are year round, keeping service standards consistent and fostering cross training among employees who don't have to worry about seasonal layoffs which are typical at many Costa Rica hotels.

Eat & Drink Local: Cayuga piloted the global “Dock to Dish” program in Central America - they connect their chefs with local fishermen and only use responsibly caught seafood. This often leads to unique dishes as the hotels all pledge to purchase and prepare whatever teh fishermen bring in that day. Additionally, their restaurants use only grass-fed beef and hormone-free chicken and as many locally produced and organic fruits and vegetables as possible.

Local fishermen in Puerto Jimenez, part of the Dock to Dish program at Lapa Rios

Community Investment: The company founded and finances a public charity called Earth Equilibrium, which focuses on environmental education & community development.  Supported projects range from providing local schools with solar power and a water filtration system to providing residents with educational, infrastructure and sustainable food projects

It's true that the Cayuga Collection properties may not be for everyone; travelers seeking a larger tropical resort experience with AC, dedicated pool butlers, manicured grounds, golf courses or a full gym may be happier with the international name brand resorts typical of Costa Rica's Papagayo Peninsula.  But for travelers who seek to experience authentic local culture, have friendly and genuine interactions with members of the community, travel in a style that is environmentally conscious while giving back through travel, Cayuga is for them.