Holden did an amazing job putting together an...
Costa Rica | Feb 19 - Feb 26, 2025

L
Lisa V.
Des Moines, IA | Reviewed on Mar 03, 2025

Holden did an amazing job putting together an initial plan, and making changes according to our feedback. Also giving honest input into lodging choices. Nancy provided comprehensive information about what to expect on our arrival and through our trip. Wilman was very responsive during our trip, answering questions and making last minute changes. What a great team!

Hotel Reviews
Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience
San Carlos, Alajuela

The thermal pools were fabulous. The grounds were gorgeous with beautiful foliage and great bird watching. We liked the location and appreciated the responsiveness of the staff. The rooms were adequate but a bit dated and often felt a little damp. Meals were fine but not standout.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
With all the rain, the room often felt damp.
La Mariposa Hotel
Manuel Antonio

Beautiful hotel! Room well appointed. Wonderful view. Comfortable beds. Pool and patio area was great. Saw many birds during our stay. Staff was attentive. We only had breakfast here, but the restaurant was busy for dinner, suggesting that it was a good place to dine. Breakfast was good. Good tea selection which we appreciated. Location of hotel was central to many shops, restaurants, etc.

Authenticity & Character
Location
beautiful view, central location, yet off the busy road.
Staff
very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds very comfortable
Activity Reviews
Sunset Sailing Cruise on the Brisa Elegante
Sunset Sailing Cruise on the Brisa Elegante
Manuel Antonio

Crew worked hard, friendly and entertaining. Ship was very cool. Liked how they stopped to allow people to swim/float. Food prepared was okay. Could be better. Drinks great.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna

Very nice experience. Weather was not the best, rained often, but cannot control the weather. It mostly impacted the view from the bridges.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ecocentro Danaus Guided Rainforest Walk (without Transportation)
Ecocentro Danaus Guided Rainforest Walk (without Transportation)
Arenal/La Fortuna

Small area, yet amazed at the number of wildlife we saw.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Diago was great!
Kayaking on Lake Arenal
Kayaking on Lake Arenal
Arenal/La Fortuna

Cloudy and a bit rainy. However did not do more than sprinkle a couple times. This was supposed to be 3 hrs, but only needed up being 2 hours. Guide was knowledgeable, he was young. It was only the 2 of us on the tour, so maybe this impacted it only lasting 2 hrs.

Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Nature Hike
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Nature Hike
Manuel Antonio

Bernie Sanchez was great! He was very patient and knowledgeable. Saw so many species. We wanted to spend time on the beach after. He lead us to a less busy beach, instructed us how to get back to the entrance, and set up our transportation back to our hotel. Went above and beyond.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Above and beyond.
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum