Luxury Travel Guide to Costa Rica: Where Adventure Meets Elegance

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Advisor - Claudia Cox
Curated By

Claudia Cox

  • Adventure Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Beaches

  • Costa Rica

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

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Curator’s statement

Visit Costa Rica, a land of unparalleled natural beauty, rich biodiversity and thrilling outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. As a luxury travel advisor, I understand the importance of curating experiences that seamlessly blend adventure with refinement, and Costa Rica offers the perfect canvas for such endeavors.

The Fora Difference

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Where to stay in Costa Rica

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Things to do in Costa Rica

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  • Private Wildlife Safari in Corcovado National Park: Experience the untamed beauty of Costa Rica's largest national park in style with a private wildlife safari. Accompanied by expert guides, venture deep into the heart of Corcovado to spot elusive creatures such as jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws in their natural habitat. With exclusive access to secluded trails and hidden waterfalls, this immersive experience offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography and intimate encounters with the rainforest's inhabitants.

  • Helicopter Tour of Arenal Volcano: Soar above the majestic Arenal Volcano aboard a private helicopter and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Costa Rica's most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the volcano's towering peak, lush rainforest surroundings, and cascading waterfalls from the comfort of your luxurious aerial vantage point.

  • Exclusive Coffee Tasting at a Private Plantation: Delve into Costa Rica's rich coffee culture with an exclusive tasting experience at a private plantation in the country's renowned coffee-growing region. Learn about the art of coffee cultivation and processing from knowledgeable experts as you sample a selection of premium single-origin coffees, each boasting its own distinct flavor profile. With behind-the-scenes access to the plantation's facilities and personalized guided tours, this immersive journey offers a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica's world-famous coffee industry.

  • Luxury Treehouse Retreat in the Rainforest: Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the rainforest with a stay at a luxurious treehouse retreat. Perched high above the forest canopy, these secluded sanctuaries offer unparalleled privacy, breathtaking views, and five-star amenities amidst nature's embrace.

  • Private Yacht Charter to the Papagayo Peninsula: Sail away to paradise aboard a private yacht charter and discover the pristine beauty of the Papagayo Peninsula in ultimate luxury. Cruise along Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coastlines, stopping to snorkel in secluded coves, swim with dolphins, and bask in the sun on pristine white-sand beaches accessible only by boat.

  • Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Central Valley: Experience the magic of Costa Rica's landscapes from a new perspective with a sunset hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Central Valley. Drift serenely above rolling hills, lush farmland, and verdant forests as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the countryside. Toast to the beauty of the moment with champagne and hors d'oeuvres served onboard by attentive staff, making this romantic escapade a truly unforgettable highlight of your luxury Costa Rican adventure.

  • Private Catamaran Cruise to Tortuga Island: Set sail on a private catamaran cruise to the idyllic shores of Tortuga Island, a pristine oasis off the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. Relax in style aboard your luxurious vessel as you glide across crystal-clear waters, enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical landscapes.

  • Private Waterfall Rappelling Adventure in the Cloud Forest: Embark on the ultimate adrenaline-fueled escapade with a private waterfall rappelling adventure in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Strap into harnesses and descend into the depths of the rainforest, navigating a series of cascading waterfalls and hidden gorges under the guidance of expert instructors. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you descend sheer rock faces, plunge into natural pools, and immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of Costa Rica's cloud forests.

Places to eat & drink in Costa Rica

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  • Makoko Restaurant, Papagayo Peninsula: Nestled within the luxurious confines of the Andaz Costa Rica Resort in the Papagayo Peninsula, Makoko Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

  • Alma Restaurant, San José: Located in the heart of San Jose's vibrant Barrio Escalante neighborhood, Alma Restaurant is a culinary gem renowned for its contemporary Costa Rican cuisine and elegant ambiance. Helmed by Chef Hector Argüello, Alma offers a menu inspired by local flavors and global influences, with dishes that showcase the country's rich culinary heritage.

  • Nectar Restaurant at Florblanca Resort, Santa Teresa: Set amidst the lush tropical gardens of the Florblanca Resort in Santa Teresa, Nectar Restaurant offers an enchanting dining experience that celebrates Costa Rica's natural bounty. Executive Chef Randhi Angamarca showcases his culinary prowess with a menu inspired by local ingredients and global flavors, with an emphasis on organic produce, fresh seafood, and seasonal specialties.

  • Ginger Restaurant, Manuel Antonio: Perched atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Ginger Restaurant is a culinary oasis in the coastal town of Manuel Antonio. Helmed by Chef Mario Alcocer, Ginger offers a menu that blends international influences with Costa Rican flair, featuring dishes made from the freshest local ingredients.

  • La Luna Restaurant, Tamarindo: Tucked away on a secluded stretch of beach in Tamarindo, La Luna Restaurant is a hidden gem beloved by locals and visitors alike. Dine with your toes in the sand as you savor Mediterranean-inspired cuisine infused with tropical flavors.

  • El Cielo Restaurant, Arenal: Located in the lush rainforest surroundings of Nayara Gardens, El Cielo Restaurant offers a gastronomic journey that celebrates the flavors of Costa Rica. Executive Chef Gabriel Morales showcases his culinary expertise with a menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients, including organic vegetables, sustainable seafood, and grass-fed meats.

  • Lantern Restaurant, Ojochal: Situated in the picturesque village of Ojochal on Costa Rica's Southern Pacific Coast, Lantern Restaurant is a culinary haven known for its inventive fusion cuisine and intimate ambiance. Chef Carlos Fernandez combines Asian and Latin American flavors to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Advisor - Claudia Cox

Travel Advisor

Claudia Cox

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, How to Spend 3 Days in Mexico City.