Week 3: Monteverde and Playa Carillo
1st Stop: Monteverde
A relaxing boat ride across Lake Arenal brings us to our next stop, Monteverde Cloud Forest. Set atop Costa Rica’s continental divide, Monteverde is a place of cloud forests and coffee plantations, monkeys, mist, and friendly locals. The Cloud Forest astounds visitors with its beauty and great amount of biodiversity, home to more than 2,000 species of plants and trees, 100 species of mammals, over 400 species of birds, and roughly 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. The vibrant town of Santa Elena is just down the road, home to great restaurants, cute boutique shops, grocery stores, and medical clinics.
Accommodations in Monteverde
Hotel Heliconia is a haven nestled amidst the breathtaking six-acre cloud forest of Monteverde. A charming wood façade, reminiscent of a cozy mountain lodge, welcomes you as you step inside. Each room consists of 2 beds, wooden furnishings, a fan, wardrobe, and garden views. Offering an extensive garden, 2 restaurants, and free Wi-Fi, Heliconia is a perfect place for our time in Monteverde, a truly special place in Costa Rica.
Community Service Project in Monteverde
During our time in Monteverde we volunteer with the incredible Bosque Eterno de los Ninos (BEN), the Children’s Eternal Rainforest. BEN is Costa Rica’s largest private reserve, purchased and protected thanks to the fundraising efforts of children from around the world. With more than 56,000 acres, the eternal rainforest is one the most biologically diverse places on the planet.
Afternoon and Evening Activities in Monteverde
Monteverde is a place of cloud forests, monkeys, mist, and relaxing mountain views. Get ready for the adrenaline-pumping zip-line canopy tour, home to one of the longest zip-lines in Latin America! Visit Selvatura, a peaceful wildlife sanctuary and home to rescued families of sloths. We’ll explore the nearby town of Santa Elena and end each day watching the sunset through the trees and the mist of this breathtaking paradise.
2nd Stop: Playa Carillo
The final stop on our incredible journey is the hidden gem of Playa Carrillo, a picturesque piece of paradise surrounded by clear, aqua waters and quiet, gorgeous beaches. This stunning location is located on the Nicoya Peninsula and is known for its serene beauty, clear turquoise waters, and relatively uncrowded atmosphere. Nearby is the bustling beach town of Playa Sámara, a charming coastal town known for its hip restaurants and laid-back vibe.
Accommodations in Playa Carillo
Welcome to Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows, a casually elegant and chic eco-lodge located within the dry forest, overlooking beautiful Carillo Beach and the blue waters of the Pacific. Nammbu creates an unforgettable experience by providing first-class attention, amenities, service, and hospitality. Enjoy ocean views from the hotel restaurant and swim in the beautiful infinity pool. Relax on your terrace or balcony as you enjoy this slice of paradise.
Community Service Project in Playa Carillo
We’ll volunteer with Ostional Wildlife Refuge, whose mission is to protect the leatherback sea turtles and their natural environment.
Afternoon and Evening Activities in Playa Carillo
Hang ten during our surf lessons at majestic Playa Samara! You’ll know why people from around the world make their way to Playa Carillo as you relax on the calm, cool beaches surrounding Carillo Bay! We’ll enjoy our last night in paradise as we kayak to Isla Chora for an afternoon of snorkeling and an amazing sunset over this Pacific paradise.
