Wellbeing in the Wild: Costa Rica

Search for sloths in Manuel Antonio National Park

Get to know the famous Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided tour, known for its white-sand beaches, hidden coves, tropical rainforest and landmark Punta Catedral. Equipped with a telescope, you’ll be on the hunt for an abundance of wildlife. It’s likely you’ll encounter toucans, two- and three-toed sloths, raccoons, coatis, snakes and a variety of monkeys. You might even be lucky enough to see rare squirrel monkeys – which can only be found in Central America.

Learn to salsa like the locals

Salsa music is something Ticos (Costa Ricans) take seriously, and there’s no better way to experience this important part of Costa Rican culture than at a salsa bar. It’s a brilliant and informal way of meeting local people and, while there are dancing classes on offer, one of the best ways to learn is simply to get up and join the crowd on the dancefloor, pausing for beers and ‘bocas’ (tapas-style small plates) in between.

Spot sea turtles on a sailing cruise

Cruise along the coastline of Quepos and the Manuel Antonio National Park, a beauty spot with postcard-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles, stingrays and dolphins before stopping off near pristine Biesanz beach to snorkel in the calm waters of its protected cove. After working up an appetite, head to the marina in Quepos for the best catch of the day at The Runaway Grill (extra cost).

Kayak through mangroves

Setting out on the Paquita river by kayak, this exploration of a mangrove ecosystem takes you along the brackish waters of the Damas canals. Joined by an expert guide who brings to life this natural habitat and the wildlife within it, you can expect to see herons, kingfishers, ospreys and other migratory birds. Keep your eyes peeled for anteaters and white-faced monkeys as you pass through waterways and under a verdant forest canopy.

Settle in for a beach sunset

Not far from the town of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park are miles of sandy stretches – some of the best beaches in Costa Rica. Spend the day swimming, surfing, or simply basking in the sunshine. As the light starts to fade, kick off your sandals for a stroll along the beach, taking in the glorious pink-orange sunset before heading to Manuel Antonio’s lively bars to enjoy a local Imperial beer or two.

Suggested itinerary

After a night in San Jose staying in a Golden View room at Hotel Grano de Oro, you'll move on to Hacienda AltaGracia for 3 nights, followed by 4 nights in an Ocean View Premium Suite at Arenas Del Mar Beach & Nature Resort, Manuel Antonio National Park, with breakfast and a private kayaking tour. 

Travel style

Seek total well-being at Hacienda AltaGracia, a transformative retreat amongst the thickly forested Talamanca mountains, and one of the most impressive wellness resorts in Costa Rica. Choose from wholesome activities, including horse riding and river bathing.

Private casitas have romantically canopied beds and terraces with tropical paradise views. There are three pools, a palapa bar, and farm-fresh fare at Las Brisas restaurant. Arenas Del Mar, just a short walk from the Manuel Antonio National Park, offers sustainable, luxurious lodgings and a tranquil spa.