Angela asked 7 years ago
We are planning a trip for 20th anniversary for the first week of December for 8 days (hopefully missing the rainy season and Thanksgiving crowds). We thought we would fly into Liberia area but could change to San Jose if better options. Just don’t want to be spending hours of the trip driving form one location to the other, as we do not plan to rent a car. We are considering the Springs in La Fortuna and then Secrets at Papagayo for the last three days to just completely relax and enjoy the all-inclusive options. We want this trip to be special and are not beholden to these areas, are we are considering the right areas for a first time vist?
Accommodation question – We don’t want to be completely secluded but are concerned these two hotels could be very busy and touristy. Any suggestions for other similar accommodations with similar views views and good locations (adult oriented)?
Adventure – we love adventure – we are experienced white water rafters, is the Sarapigui the most intense river option close to the Arenal area? There seems to be so many adventure options offered by the resorts, however, they seem like they will be big group, long line, family oriented, slow moving tours. We would like to do some guided tours, however, would like for them to be a little more advanced and more towards adults only. Are there any local adventure outfits, that offer smaller more advanced group activities/adventures that get you closer to the local animals and nature, water fall rappelling that is more challenging, volcano hiking, bungee jumping, remote hot springs, etc. that we could contact?
Thank you in advance for your suggestions!
Jenn and Matt Staff answered 6 years ago
Hi Angela,
Your timing looks good to avoid the crowds, it can be really quiet in December right up until vacation week and Christmas. As far as hotels and experiences go, you can definitely find hotels and tours that are geared more towards adults. The Tabacon Resort might be a good choice, but doesn’t really have views of the Volcano. It does have amazing hot springs though. On many tours, you can opt for a private option (for an additional charge) or do a tour that is less common so that it might just be the two of you going that day. The Sarapiqui has different sections and one of them is a class III-IV. That is about the highest level you will find in the area. It sounds like you might benefit from our Customized Itinerary Service. We’d be able to narrow down options specific to you and your budget. Let us know if we can help.