The wealth of resources available in Costa Rica and Nicaragua for the adventure crowd exist well out of proportion to their small size – given that Costa Rica is only 200 miles long and Nicaragua’s about the size of New York, it’s surprising to find such diversity. The higher central regions of these countries offer tall trees and cloud forests, while in the lowlands lush rainforests teem with wildlife. This month we bring you two outstanding operators in Central America –
Horizonte’s Nature Tours and
Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge.
Although you may not hear the volcano rumble when you hike in
Rincon de la Vieja National Park in Costa Rica, you might be surprised by the noise the animals living in this diverse wilderness create – from
kinkajous to
howler monkeys,
three-wattled bellbirds to
quetzals – this park is alive with activity.
Join Horizontes Nature Tours in Costa Rica and you’ll find yourself hiking seven hours to the crater of the park’s active volcano, currently in a "period of relative calm," to see astonishing views of the Caribbean Sea, Lake Nicaragua and the Pacific Ocean.
Mountain biking around Lake Arenal, rafting through the Pacuare River’s famous combination of white water and clear pools are also in the plan – all part of co-founders Tamara Budowski and Margarita Forero’s mission to promote environmental conservation and responsible travel in Costa Rica, inspiring and educating guests through exhilarating experiences.
Contact: (506) 222-2022. www.horizontes.com.
Trip Cost: $1462 - $1598 depending on season.
Near the fishing village of
San Juan del Sur, about 2 hours north of Managua, Nicaragua, lies a 1,000-hectare
tree farming and reforestation project and 800 hectare private nature reserve – a beautiful getaway that
Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge guests call their backyard.
Inspired by the well-documented success of the Lapa Rios Ecolodge in Peninsula de Osa, in Costa Rica, Morgan’s Rock has become the kind of success story everyone loves. From the 15 bungalows – all westward facing to allow unparalleled views of sunsets over the Pacific and surrounded by the peace and privacy of the forest – to the outdoor activities - guests enjoy a first rate holiday that directly supports the preservation of this paradise.
Once there, enjoy delicious organic food grown onsite and choose from a range diversions – highlights of one friend’s recent trip included kayaking in the estuary located on the premises and a secluded view of sea turtle nesting grounds on the beach, protected by Morgan’s Rock employees from poachers. Also try horseback riding, surfing, and that classic Central American treat, zip lining.
Rates range from US$103 to US$302 per night depending on season and occupancy; price includes three meals, local beverages and two daily tours.
Contact: Reservations at Costa Rica main office: +011 (506) 232-6449;
Email info@morgansrock.com; www.morgansrock.com
