Disney Movie "Encanto" in Colombia Inspired by Hacienda Bambusa and Casa Yahri
See how the creative team from Disney found their artistic inspiration for the film Encanto at both Hacienda Bambusa and Casa Yahri in Colombia
HOW THE DISNEY MOVIE “ENCANTO” IN COLOMBIA WAS INSPIRED BY HACIENDA BAMBUSA AND CASA YAHRI
Colombia’s latest tourism boom has had its help in many forms. It was the first country in Latin America to reach pre-pandemic levels of international tourism arrivals, and the Disney movie Encanto was a major help in this.
The timing of the film’s release in 2021 meant that kids stuck at home in front of screens during the pandemic watched the movie repeatedly and developed a new fascination with the magic that Colombia provides as a destination, perhaps in stark contrast to their parents who grew up during a time when Colombia was plagued with problems that culminated in the 1990s, now some 20+ years in the past.
In 2019, the creative team from Disney Studios was sent to Colombia to seek artistic inspiration for the upcoming film Encanto. The travel arrangements for this Disney team were organized by Kate Doty of the San Francisco-based tour operator Geographic Expeditions, who has a long history of pioneering trips in Colombia and was one of the first international travel companies to discover and start using Hacienda Bambusa as their preferred lodging for guests in Colombia’s coffee region.
The Disney team used both Hacienda Bambusa and Casa Yahri as bases of operation during their inspiration trip for Encanto. In the images below, we can see how Hacienda Bambusa was eventually turned into the magical Casa Madrigal, and how the village of Barichara where Casa Yahri is located set the scene for village life in the film.
The images above clearly denote architectural attributes such as the bell tower, central courtyard with railings, cantilevered eves, and red roof tiles. As well as the tropical foliage of overflowing bougainvillea and tall, slender wax palms, which are native to the region.
The character of Camilo Madrigal in the movie Encanto was inspired by the real life Camilo Garcia, the house guide at Hacienda Bambusa who is a favorite of all guests for his warm smile, deep local knowledge and infectious enthusiasm for Colombia. In the second row of images we can see the intricate woodwork of the window coverings at Hacienda Bambusa next to an image of Maribel Madrigal in the Encanto movie where the woodwork was perfectly replicated. Lastly, Hacienda Bambusa brings a trio of local musicians to play for guest during special al fresco dinners at the Hacienda, and this experience of the artistic team was also brought to life in the movie.
The images above show the charming village of Barichara in the Santander Province of Colombia where Casa Yahri is located. The Disney team said about Barichara: “It’s like a town lost in time, which is really what we wanted to do with our film, to have it feel timeless and inviting to others. Barichara is a place where it probably looks the same today as it did 100 years ago and it feels like you're transported to a different era.”
If you would like to take your kids to live the real world Encanto experience, and have an amazing time yourself - consider a trip to Colombia with a stay at both Hacienda Bambusa and Casa Yahri. They might even get to meet Camilo in person!
Why Should You Visit Nicaragua Now
Nicaragua is a beautiful country to visit, and now is the time! Learn why the properties that we represent in Nicaragua combine for an amazing, fun-filled itinerary perfect for multi-gen families, groups of friends, honeymooners, and more!
Nicaragua: Why You Should Visit Now
Last year during March 2022 I made my way back to Costa Rica, but instead of visiting the lodges there this time, I would immediately make my way to Nicaragua from Liberia, CR for a site inspection of Jicaro Island Lodge, one of the properties under the Cayuga Collection sustainable hotels brand. After arriving in Liberia, CR the Sales & Ops team from Cayuga Collection picked me up in order to cross the border at Peñas Blancas into Nicaragua. I had never been to Nicaragua before this, so I was eager to learn more.
Turning the Page
At this point in time, no flights from the United States or Costa Rica were arriving in Nicaragua. Pretty much the only way to visit was via border crossing from Peñas Blancas, and I quickly learned that it was a long journey. This was my first time visiting Nicaragua, but I had heard stories of the resiliency of Nicaraguan local people, continuously working hard to keep tourism open and welcome to travelers far and wide. Before the 2018 political uprising in Nicaragua, ecotourism was booming and things were looking up for the country of lakes and volcanos. After the dust from political rallies settled, tourism once again began to rise, only to be shut down by a brutal hurricane. Once again, Nicaraguans found themselves cleaning up a mess to bring back tourism, and that is when the COVID-19 pandemic happened.
Just when it seemed like everything was going back to normal, in March of 2020 a complete economic & travel shutdown occurred with no flights entering the country occurred. This was devastating news for the locals who had already been dealt so much adversity. Once again, Nicaraguans remained resilient and did not give up hope.
Photo taken from the lookout tower on Jicaro Island Lodge, March 2022.
Introducing… Rancho Santana!
When we arrived at Peñas Blancas, we waited our turn to get through customs & immigration. The only other people there were some backpackers who were either trying to go surfing, or visiting Nicaragua in hopes that it would be less expensive than Costa Rica. We got through the border crossing, found our driver and made our way to Jicaro with hopes of arriving in time to catch a sunset. In Granada, it was very quiet with hardly any tourists walking around, if any.
After several discussions and non-stop brainstorming among our team, it seemed like there was only one truly viable answer to this solution. That word was patience. We knew flights would eventually reopen, but the question was when… And to remember what the Nicaraguans taught us, to remain optimistic and resilient.
Several months went by after returning home and nothing had changed in regards to flights reopening. However, things began to start feeling different in August of 2022. Clark and I spoke briefly with Rancho Santana who was interested in possibly working with us. However, flights were still not available to Nicaragua. We decided to keep in touch, and told them once flights reopen, we would talk about coming down for a site inspection. Fast forward to November, I remember waking up one morning and seeing news from our team at Jicaro Island Lodge mentioning that American and United were both reopening a daily route to Managua. America from Miami and United from Houston.
So, long story short, Clark and I made our way to Rancho Santana shortly after in January of 2023 on the direct flight with United from Houston. We arrived in Managua, got right through a short customs line, found our driver and were on the way. We couldn’t believe how smooth this process was! Beautiful drive through the countryside with views of lakes and volcanoes along the route, only to end at paradise overlooking the beautiful Emerald Coast. This was way less exhausting and more fun than the border crossing.
Once we pulled up to Rancho Santana (2.5 - 3 hrs driving from Managua Airport), I could instantly tell this was a special place and perhaps the missing piece to a big puzzle that we were trying to solve. Within the Clark Kotula Representation portfolio of hotels, most properties that we work with are small boutique properties, typically with 8-20 rooms at each hotel. However, Rancho Santana has 27 houses to rent from, a 17-bedroom hotel, 6 two-bedroom Garden Casitas, and 30 three-bedroom Beachside Condos. At first thought, it wouldn’t be a good fit due to its size, but as Clark Kotula will tell you, we quickly realized that Rancho Santana is “SO WORTH IT!”
Rancho Santana: Family-Friendly & Eco-Friendly
An Eco-Friendly & Family-Friendly Adventure Resort along the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua, sounds too good to be true, right? Well at Rancho Santana, they have cracked the code and managed to make this dream into a reality. When Vera, the Director of Sales for Rancho Santana, took us around the entire property for a site inspection I was instantly shocked with their operation. Instead of importing a bunch of things such as food, cement, steel, and energy, they create it on the ranch. They have a fully functioning solar farm, steel factory, and construction company all employed by local Nicaraguans. Beyond that, they operate and manage an organic garden & farm. Among the hotel and construction company, over 450 local Nicaraguans are employed here. One thing that amazed me the most was the quality of the hiking and biking trails. Guests are able to immerse in the authenticity of this place because of the friendly and passionate staff members who make it all possible.
Programs such as helping out in Rancho Santana’s Organic Garden are types of activities children can participate in, while parents enjoy much-deserved time to themselves.
Solar Field at Rancho Santana… Learn more here https://ranchosantana.com/sustainability/solar-energy/
Putting All of the Pieces Together
As Clark headed out, I returned to Jicaro Island Lodge for a few nights to see how everything was going. To start, Howard the GM of Jicaro who we call “The Mayor of Granada” took me around the town to see how it has changed. There were travelers all over the place! We got lunch in a wonderful courtyard restaurant downtown Granada and I was jazzed up to see so many people out and about. When I got to Jicaro afterwards, I came to find out that almost every casita for the night was booked. There were people from Colorado, Asia, Europe, and Nicaragua staying there. The staff was thrilled!
Adding Rancho Santana was an exciting addition for us because it combines really nicely with Jicaro Island Lodge. For most travelers, there is a “no-brainer decision” when it comes to stopping by Jicaro Island Lodge before or after going to Rancho Santana. Since Jicaro is only 45-minutes to Managua airport, the drive from Jicaro to Rancho Santana is only about 2 hours. By staying at Jicaro beforehand, it provides the opportunity to visit Mombacho & Masaya Volcano, and to explore the vibrant colorful town of Granada. That way, guests can really enjoy everything that Rancho Santana has to offer.
Also, as someone who has been honored to meet many local Nicaraguan people, and to be invited into their country, helping travelers return is something that I will be forever passionate about. Their resiliency to keep eco-travel alive by showing off the natural beauty of their country is one of the most special things I’ve witnessed in this world. We invite you to come experience it for yourself!
Feel free to email Clark or myself with any questions:
Guest Feedback
Now that all the pieces of the puzzle seemed together, we began sending different travel agencies and groups to experience Jicaro and Rancho Santana in Nicaragua. They had an amazing time, and don’t take my word for it! Check out what they had to say and enjoy the photos. When you’re ready visit Nicaragua and begin sending clients there, do let us know!
Also, don’t forget to check out our Sample Itinerary of Nicaragua featuring Rancho Santana and Jicaro Island Lodge.
“I loved starting our trip by staying in Granada. Jicaro Island Retreat is such a special property -- you have to take a boat to get there as it is an island retreat. The food was exquisite and it was so relaxing. You get the benefit of a quiet island oasis with the culture and activity of colonial Granada, just a quick boat and car ride away. From there, I recommend going to Rancho Santana where you can do everything or nothing. From surfing to horseback riding to spa to a cooking class, there is so much to do! The beaches are stunning and it is one of the most untouched, beautiful places I have ever seen. Jicaro Island Retreat and Rancho Santana make a great combination and a wonderful way to experience Nicaragua.”
— Natalie Kurtzman, FORA Travel
FORA Travel Advisors loving the views of Mombacho Volcano.
“I would absolutely recommend for anyone to visit Nicaragua- in fact I have already told all my friends and will be planning a trip with my family to Rancho Santana whirred there is literally an activity to please all. Jicaro Island is such a magical special place it is hard to describe in words. Some of the highlights were simply waking up In my gorgeous casita tree house listening to the waves lapping against the shore of the lake. Coffee on the front porch and yoga on the lakefront were the perfect ways to start the morning. Hiking mombachu, zip lining and staring into the crater of (insert name I forgot of active volcano) at night were also highlights. And the food, the food! A 5 star menu, the fresh juices and fruit and the sheer variety of menu items were out of this world. And lastly the staff…wonderful kind thoughtful knowledgeable- we were sad to say goodbye when the time came. A truly magical and restorative retreat.
Also the highlights for me at Rancho Santana was surfing Panga drops sat that pristine stretch of beach Perros. Then signing up the rest of the girls for a surf lesson there which was truly joyful. The instructors were so fun and amazing. And then of course having tacos, sublime ceviche and table side guacamole afterwards. And our e-mountain bike ride (guided) was beyond fun. And the yoga, amazing and the spa…the hot and cold plunge pools - now I’m obsessed and doing it everyday at home
Oh and I almost forgot- felt beyond safe traveling there. Safer than other nearby countries”— Alison Van Dis, Friends of Jacqui Kotula
“CLARO QUE SI!!! I absolutely would and have! What an ecologically robust and culturally vibrant country with a ton to offer an adventure traveler! Highlights for me were the day that included - a boat ride, volcano hike, and zip lining was incredible! Also, the day that included mountain biking and surfing! Regarding safety… Yes, absolutely felt safe at all times. There is a sense of safety in a country without blasting volumes of tourism. You feel seen, watched over, appreciated and cared for in a unique way. It's hard to explain if you have not been to less-traveled destinations. Being one of only a spattering of tourists offers a charming sense of community and is a privilege as a tourist.”
— Casey Binstadt, Friends of Jacqui Kotula
“Both properties are 1000x better than they look in the pictures. Jicaro was such a unique travel destination. The level of service there was above and beyond anything I've ever experienced and the food was delicious. Our time there was the perfect mix of activity, adventure and relaxation. The natural beauty of the area and the kindness of the people definitely added to the experience.
Rancho Santana was, of course, incredible. It was nice to have all the amenities of a larger resort without any of the crowds. It felt like we had the place to ourselves at times. It was great for our group to be able to do things on their own or together as a group. The trail system for biking and hiking was incredible and very unexpected.
I've been spreading the word about traveling in Nicaragua and hopefully some others will jump on board soon too.”— Alison Bricker, Friends of Jacqui Kotula
Is Costa Rica a Year Round Destination?
Did you know that Costa Rica is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round and offers a variety of different activities to experience in the Green or Dry Season? We share some tips and advice for arranging trips there now.
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.
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.
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 – JanuarySunny & 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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!
“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.”
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!
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.
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!
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.
Come to Costa Rica, but make sure to use this as your guide for the best time to visit each destination.
Pura Vida!!
Ecuador with the Kids - Pint Size Pilot
Earlier this year, I helped Tara Cannon arrange a trip to Ecuador with her husband and two children, ages 9 and 12. Tara is the founder of the leading family-travel blog 'Pint Size Pilot'. Through documenting her own experiences of traveling as a family, she seeks to show other parents that having children does not mean an end to exotic, interesting or adventurous journeys.
Ecuador With The Kids
Earlier this year, I helped Tara Cannon arrange a trip to Ecuador with her husband and two children, ages 9 and 12. Tara is the founder of the leading family-travel blog 'Pint Size Pilot'. Through documenting her own experiences of traveling as a family, she seeks to show other parents that having children does not mean an end to exotic, interesting or adventurous journeys.
Views of the main square from the rooftop terrace at Casa Gangotena, Quito
While Pint Size Pilot is geared towards globe-trotting parents, Tara's website is a great resource for travel industry professionals too. She peppers her destination and hotel blogs with first-hand recommendations on flying with children, gear reviews, restaurant advice and directories for babysitting services and baby equipment rentals throughout North America, Mexico and the Caribbean. If you are ever stumped by a family-travel related question from a client, there's a chance that the answer can be found on Pint Size Pilot.
Exploring the Andean Highlands on horseback at Hacienda Zuleta
In Ecuador Tara's family was hosted at each of the Ecuador mainland properties in the Clark Kotula Collection; Casa Gangotena in Quito, Mashpi Ecolodge in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest and Hacienda Zuleta in the Andean Mountains of Northern Ecuador. The following links take you directly to her blog posts, good fodder to send to travelers who are considering a mainland Ecuador extension before or after a Galapagos Islands trip.
Top Things to do in Quito, Ecuador with Kids: Highlights a few less-obvious attractions that appeal to children and a great resource for family travelers with a free day in Quito.
Discovering the Cloud Forest, Mashpi Lodge
Review of Mashpi Lodge: Candid review of the property as an optional trip from Quito with great anecdotes about the wonderful, kid-friendly guides and additional amenities that the lodge provides to help younger visitors really engage with the surrounding Cloud Forest environment. Tara also provides good information on weather and packing suggestions.
Paradise Found: Hacienda Zuleta: I've said it before, but it is always nice to have another voice echoing my sentiment; Zuleta is made for families. Tara spent a few nights here at the start of her Ecuador trip to relax after a long flight but Hacienda Zuleta is ideal at the beginning or the end of any larger Ecuador adventure. Knowing that the kids can safely roam the property under the supervision of farm dogs is a treat for mom and dad.
Canine companion "Mambo" - perfect guide for exploring the grounds at Hacienda Zuleta
How Young is Too Young for the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are justifiably regarded as one of the best family travel destinations on the planet, and for good reason. For one, the unique wildlife treats human visitors with curiosity as opposed to fear, an unusual trait that captivates travelers of all ages and leads to eye-level encounters with blue-footed boobies and beach-bumming fur seals.
How Young is Too Young for the Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are justifiably regarded as one of the best family travel destinations on the planet, and for good reason. The unique wildlife treats human visitors with curiosity as opposed to fear, an unusual trait that captivates travelers of all ages and leads to eye-level encounters with blue-footed boobies and beach-bumming fur seals. Excellent naturalist guides help visitors explore the archipelago on hiking, snorkeling, kayaking and even mountain biking excursions, much to the delight of active children and teenagers. Tropical diseases such as malaria and yellow fever are not a concern on the Galapagos Islands, in Quito or in the Andean Highlands. The international flight between North America and Quito is relatively short, taking as few as four hours from Miami. And the weather, being Equatorial, is reliably sunny and warm for most of the year. Add in the fact that Ecuador operates on the USD, avoiding any exchange rate confusion, and the Galapagos Islands seem like a no-brainer as a great international destination to explore as a family.
A quick search of online forums discussing family travel to the Galapagos Islands reveals an often-repeated question of concerned parents, "Are my children too young for the Galapagos?" While opinions vary, I'm here to share that personally, I think the Galapagos Islands are an excellent destination for children of all ages, even little ones as young as two or three. The trick is in selecting the type of experience that is correct for your family and will maximize the enjoyment and amazement of all members.
There are two main ways to experience the Galapagos Islands, either by boat or by land, both of which offer age-related discounts for children or price reductions based on shared accommodations. Most boat-based explorations follow an itinerary of island-hopping and shore excursions over the course of one week. These itineraries are set in advance by the National Park and alternate (with some variation) between the northwest or southeast clusters of islands, plus a mandatory exploration of Santa Cruz Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station. Guests dine, sleep and relax on board and join guides on daily zodiac excursions to various islands that likely involve hiking, natural history, wildlife viewing and beach explorations. Snorkeling is almost always an option and some boats carry kayaks that can accommodate two adults or an adult and a child. Excursions, meals and onboard activities are all enjoyed as part of a group.
For families considering the boat option, make sure to check age restrictions imposed by the vessel. Many sailings have an age restriction of twelve or older. Family-specific sailings, scheduled to coincide with spring and winter school breaks as well as summer holidays, often have a much lower age-limit of seven or even younger, but it varies from boat to boat. Other considerations to keep in mind concern comfort with water and sensitivity to motion. Can your child swim and are they comfortable wading through knee-waist deep water? PFDs are provided onboard, for snorkeling and during zodiac travel, but comfort with water and some swimming experience would be essential for a child to fully enjoy a boat trip. Day trips to the islands often involve 'wet landings' which means that you must disembark the zodiac in the waves and wade to the beach. Parents can certainly carry younger children during this transition, but it is something to keep in mind when evaluating your vacation choices. Motion sickness is also something to consider; in general, the seas around the Galapagos Islands are fairly calm, especially from December-June, but boats anchored in calm seas can still bob and rock at night. Will this induce nausea or peaceful nighttime slumber? A parent knows best.
A land-based trip to the Galapagos Islands offers more flexibility than a boat and generally doesn't come with any age restrictions. While it is true that a land-based journey will take you to fewer individual islands than a boat-based journey, the diversity and quality of the wildlife viewing and excursions remains the same for all but the most avid birders. (And as this post is about traveling to the Galapagos with younger children, viewing the Waved Albatross on Hood Island is probably not high on the list of priorities.)
On a land or lodge-based experience in the Galapagos Islands, families can choose between active days of wildlife viewing and snorkeling and also enjoy down time at the lodge or on a beach, providing quiet moments for calm play or reflection after a stimulating day. Some lodges, such as the Galapagos Safari Camp in the highlands of Santa Cruz, even cater to families with specially designed itineraries that include a private guide who adapts the pace and activity level to suit the abilities and interests of your children. Day trips by small boat to explore surrounding uninhabited islands are included, but these are interspersed with time spent hiking around Santa Cruz, marveling at the gigantic, free-roaming inhabitants of the adjacent National Tortoise Reserve, spending a day with a local fisherman and snorkeling or kayaking in secluded bays around Santa Cruz. During school holidays, Galapagos Safari Camp also runs a special kids club that grants parents some afternoon alone time while children engage in a variety of creative activities led by lodge staff and guides.
For parents with young children, there is one important, key difference between a lodge-based and boat-based trip to the Galapagos which must be emphasized; on a boat, you are constantly among a group of other, unknown travelers. You eat together, explore together and outside of your stateroom, relax onboard together. Some travelers may view this as a great benefit but for parents with young children, constantly being among strangers without a place to escape to when a "time-out" is necessary can be a great source of anxiety. On a lodge-based trip, particularly when your family is being escorted by a private guide, parents can rest assured that they have the flexibility to accommodate sudden meltdowns and insert impromptu nap times and snack sessions whenever necessary.
I'm a parent to two young and very active boys, both of whom have been traveling internationally since their first year of life, given that their mother's family lives in Scotland. So both my wife and I know firsthand that traveling with young children can be challenging and sometimes stressful. I also concede that some destinations, like Patagonia, are best saved for when children are older and can tolerate longer drives and appreciate a 7+ mile hike. But I don't think that age should be a reason to NOT take children on an overseas trip to a destination that is really well suited to the young and curious. In fact, I think that international travel from a young age provides a great education and helps lay a foundation that allows youth to grow into better citizens of the world on the local and global level. Spending time with my young family in South America and elsewhere in the world has been one of the best experiences of my life. So don't buy into the idea that there is a certain requirement for exploring a place like the Galapagos Islands with young children. Be honest about the abilities and interests of your child and work with a knowledgable travel agent who knows the boat and land-based lodging options well and can design the perfect trip for your family at any age.
Enjoy the following video that I created from our family trip to the Galapagos Safari Camp.