A beautiful view of the Concepción and Maderas volcanoes in Nicaragua.
I recently returned from an unforgettable educational trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua, organized by Way To Go Tours. Traveling with a group of 10 other travel advisors from across the United States, I had high expectations for my first visit to these two beautiful countries, and I was not disappointed.
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Our group of travel advisors on the Way To Go Tours educational trip, ready to explore and learn about Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
Exploring Costa Rica
Our adventure began in Costa Rica, where we stayed at three remarkable properties: El Mangrove in Guanacaste, Lagarta Lodge in Nosara, and Hotel Punta Islita in Guanacaste. Despite visiting during the “Green Season,” when afternoon showers are common, the vibrant scenery and lush landscapes were a sight to behold. The rain only added to the region's charm, making everything look even more verdant and alive.
Hotel Punta Islita beautifully illuminated at night.
One thing to note about traveling in Costa Rica during this season is the road conditions. Heavy rains can cause washouts and detours, making it challenging to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Renting a car might not be the best option; instead, having a knowledgeable local guide is invaluable. Our guide's local connections and foresight about road conditions ensured smooth travels.
Given Costa Rica's proximity to the equator, the weather is hot and humid. Packing light, loose, and breathable clothing is essential. Be prepared to change outfits often due to the heat.
Highlights of Costa Rica:
Ziplining in Guanacaste: Flying through the treetops, we encountered playful monkeys and a variety of birds, making it an exhilarating experience.
Catamaran Cruise from Flamingo Marina: This adventure included snorkeling with a guide, where we were lucky enough to spot manta rays.
Cultural Immersion: Visiting local markets and grocery stores provided us with a glimpse into the daily lives and vibrant culture of the Costa Rican people.
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Playful monkeys in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Journey to Nicaragua
Our transition to Nicaragua involved a unique border-crossing experience. After being driven to the border by our Costa Rican guide, we disembarked with our luggage to walk through customs and immigration. Despite the lengthiness of the process, at no point did we feel unsafe. This highlighted the complexities of international travel for truck drivers and was a fascinating aspect of the trip. Once on the Nicaraguan side, our new guide greeted us and continued our journey.
Border crossing from Costa Rica to Nicaragua.
In Nicaragua, we stayed at Rancho Santana, which quickly became one of my favorite resorts. This self-sustaining resort boasts its own farm, wood shop, grocery store, and even a school for resident children. Participating in yoga at The Treetop Palapa offered breathtaking views, and a tour of the resort's five beaches was equally impressive.
Aerial view of one of Rancho Santana's stunning beaches.
A particularly humbling part of our stay was visiting an after-school program and a local doctor’s office. Through the "Pack For A Purpose" initiative, we brought supplies to donate, underscoring the impact of even small contributions.
Highlights of Nicaragua:
Rancho Santana: The resort's dedication to sustainability and community was inspiring. The food, sourced directly from their farm, was delicious, and the handmade furniture added a special touch to our stay.
Jicaro Island Ecolodge: Accessible only by boat, this private island lodge offered exclusivity with just nine casitas. The serene environment and exceptional cuisine made for a truly unforgettable experience.
This trip provided an incredible blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and luxury. Both Costa Rica and Nicaragua showcased their unique charms and left me eager to explore more.
Contact us at Next Travel to experience the magic of these destinations for yourself!
