Costa Rica

Travelers usually arrive via San José or Liberia. If landing in the capital, the boutique Hotel Grano de Oro provides a charming start. From San José, a short domestic flight south connects you to the wildlife-rich Osa Peninsula and the emerald waters of the Golfo Dulce, a sanctuary for sea turtles and a nursery for humpback whales. Playa Cativo Lodge, accessible only by boat, is set within the 1,000-acre private reserve ideal for rainforest hikes, mangrove kayaking, waterfall rappelling and encounters with spinner dolphins. Another short flight from San Jose can take you to Hacienda AltaGracia, an Auberge Resort set among rolling valley vistas, coffee plantations. A drive from San Jose gets you to Pacuare Lodge where you can arrive via a exhilarating class III–IV river journey into one of the country’s most untouched areas.

Further explorations can lead you to Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, hike along the trails and cross bridges tucked among ancient trees. Spot brightly-coloured birds and creatures concealed within the misty canopy. More wildlife can be accessed via a charter flight to the vibrant Caribbean town of Tortuguero, known for its Afro-Costa Rican cuisine and biodiversity – home to at least 400 bird species, 60 different types of frogs, and a variety of monkeys, caimans, crocodiles and turtles.

Volcanoes define much of Costa Rica’s central landscapes. Beneath Tenorio Volcano, waterfalls, natural pools and rejuvenating hot springs await. In Arenal Volcano National Park, Nayara’s tented glamping camps impress with volcano views and rainforest immersion.

If you’re arriving via Liberia, Origins Lodge is also located among volcanoes and pairs French-inspired style with Costa Rican wilderness. Expect toucans, iguanas, sloths, poison dart frogs and even the world’s smallest bees—all from the comfort of your plunge pool. Adventure thrives across this volcanic region: horseback riding, tapir conservation outings, canyoning and rafting.

Also close to Liberia is the Papagayo Peninsula, boasting beaches, world-class golf, tennis, spa, and several high end resorts such as Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve or private villas like Villa Avellana. Once you’re tired of wakeboarding, waterskiing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, motor to a private beach for an intimate BBQ. On land, go for a zip line or strap in and climb strangler fig trees in the Horizonte’s Forest Reserve.  As night with your Gray guide to catch the ethereal bioluminescence on shore.

Looking to catch some more waves? Head south from Papagayo to Nosara, known as the village of wellness, is a yoga and surf hotspot, offering long surf breaks, open air cafés and laid-back luxury. Tamarindo, also delivers great waves for all levels but serves a livelier scene. Pasha Villa is a secluded private retreat with easy access to surf, wellness, and the vibrant culture of the coast. So much to discover! Pura Vida!