Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

Our first trip with [the tour operator], and first adventure on the bikes. This trip with Roberto and Jeyson guiding and Luis driving exceeded all of our expectations. We are hooked on this type of trip now and cannot believe we haven't found you before. We packed in so many wonderfully different terrains, views and wildlife experiences, it will be hard to replicate. The bikes were great, the cycling was the perfect amount for reasonably fit older adults. The first cycling stop where the water container was opened and we had the vision of perfectly arranged fresh pineapple and papaya was when I knew we would love it. This was the perfect time of year no rain, occasionally a little too hot but no need to carry excessive cold weather baggage. The tour guides at the national parks were exceptional and our tour guide Roberto had done all the upfront work to make our travel and experience of these phenomenal sites as smooth and streamlined as possible. We are truly grateful for a magnificent experience in difficult times pura vida!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
There are a few inspirational moments. Firstly finding that we had a great mixed group to share our holiday with. Some couples, singletons, siblings and lifetime friends, many who had been on previous trips and had advice and experiences to share from those. In particular, two wonderful 70 old ladies who often headed up the group on our way up the hills gave me hope for another 15 years of these type of holidays. Along with the wildlife which was exquisite and varied I found the vegetation to be awe inspiring. I loved the Wilson Botanical gardens and the rides through the mountains as we descended from that area. Seeing the various different plantations from pineapple to coffee and bananas was fascinating. And finally our beautiful afternoons by the the beach first the Pacific at Agua Dulce and then the Carribean for our impromptu swim, which Roberto realised was a necessary addition to the itinerary.

What did you think of your group leader?
Roberto is an excellent locally based leader , who is fluent in English, with the skills to manage and rearrange the itinery to suit the group requirements and the ensuing pandemic that we sadly were having to contend with. He was prepared to manage finances for various meals to enable us to get the best out of our time in the country, a truly experienced and skilled leader. He patiently repeated his instructions when asked, and pulled us into line when needed. His knowledge of the country and the wildlife was exceptional and he sets the standard very high for all our future trips. His helper Jeyson was also a delightful young man, who is a valuable addition to the team. With Luis and his exceptional driving they are a formidable group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
As we were new to this style of trip, we hadn't thought through how it would work, it did perfectly but here are the things we learnt. Moving accommodation every night was an organisational challenge and being very prepared for this in your packing would help. 'Packing cubes is a recommendation I will take home from another guest'!! We set up early a group whatapp which enabled us to share photos and co-ordinate meeting in a timely manner this was essential. We had a fair degree of bus time and these journeys were made much more fun by having an inclusive group vibe, where everyone was helpful regarding possessions and spotting bathroom opportunities. Each person, couple is looking to get something slightly different out of the experience if everyone in the group is mindful of that it works brilliantly, as it did for us.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
We were somewhat anxious about various different aspects of this type of trip, even before the coronovirus effect. However within a very short space of time our fears were allayed. we weren't sure that our cycle level would be ok, but with the back up of the bus that becomes irrelevant, so long as you are comfortable covering the required distance at the pace that is recommended if you want to have bus break time that is no problem. We felt under a little pressure the first couple of nights, as we had missed our connection in Madrid ( do not book flights with only 2 hours connection window) due to French air traffic control!!!! It took us a while to settle in but having a positive attitude to dealing with hiccups helps and it was no big deal. A night in Madrid gave us a chance to practice Spanish in a plaza, and I had a couple of hours reading by a pool. We have loved our hotel based activity holidays for many years especially as the children grew and we had busy work lives. This more immmersive experience of travel though will suit us for many years to come.

This was our first [tour operator] Holiday, it did not disappoint. Very well organised trip from all the information prior to our trip to all the hard working ground staff in Costa Rica. Nothing was too much trouble. The scenery ,mountains, beaches, flora, fauna, wildlife all amazing. My wishes to see sloths, Tucans and green eyed frogs all came true and so much more. The cycling was varied , very hot some days but the bus was always there to provide refreshing fresh pineapple or watermelon along with energy drinks and water. Some hills , some flatter rides and an 8mile beach cycle. We had such fun and good laughs with all our group who gelled well together. This was facilitated by our guides and support team . Our guide Guillermo was a wildlife expert and was knowledgeable about all areas of his country, this was delivered in a very witty and humourous style. Loved it all

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
cycling through banana plantations seeing wildlife in their own habitats

What did you think of your group leader?
well organised, hard working, extremely knowledgable about his country from history, geography and wildlife. His sense of humour was ace.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Its a full on trip, but well worth the effort

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Book now !

A superb holiday in a wonderful country: jaw dropping scenery, brilliant cycle routes, unbelievably beautiful and abundant wildlife, friendly locals and a really professional and dedicated guide and his team. I would recommend this trip to anyone who loves cycling, nature and great company. I would not hesitate to go back to this awe-inspiring county.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Cycling through the Orosi valley with its lush vegetation and beautiful views, along with experiencing fantastic wildlife so close up in its natural habitat, that has inspired me to see and learn more in the future. Not to mention, casually riding or driving by several of the country’ s volcanoes ( Arenal, Poas, Turrialba and Irazu) peeping out of the clouds was stunning.

What did you think of your group leader?
Andres and his crew were always helpful, patient ,informative, had a high regard for safety and were just generally good fun. Andres’ knowledge of wildlife was second to none. He inspired us all. Nothing was ever too much trouble and he always maintained a professional manner at all times. It was no coincidence the group ‘ gelled’ so well together from the first instance - instead that was credit to Andres and his personal and helpful nature. He is an excellent, yet modest cyclist too. He was always encouraging people up the hills and trying to keep the group together at all times.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take more warm clothes for the low season as there was around three much cooler mountain evenings ( not cooler necessary for cycling though in the daytime ), plus a good few pairs of decent cycling shorts and a hairdryer to dry them off last minute as it’s very humid! Take lots of DEET and a decent camera, SLR or compact. There is no need to take your own snacks or rehydration tablets for cycling as there was always ample supply in the minibus during frequent stops. Roads are good quality tarmac with few potholes, there is little traffic on the planned cycle routes and the drivers are courteous often given a friendly ‘pip’ to cheer you on.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
This is my 4 th [tour operator] trip and it won’t be my last. It was the best so far. The holiday began my proper education in wildlife and has inspired me to research more. Costa Rica is such a unique, beautiful and unspoilt country and one everyone should visit at least once, although somehow I don’t think once is enough. Do not hesitate to book this fantastic holiday.

A wonderful holiday - great and knowledgeable guide, fantastic group, enjoyable cycling, great wildlife and scenery! I would definitely recommend this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
It was probably seeing a sea turtle laying eggs - it was amazing! However, all the wildlife and scenery was incredible. .

What did you think of your group leader?
Andreas was an excellent group leader - extremely knowledgeable about the wildlife, an excellent cyclist and we were always clear what we were doing and when.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Remember to take some layers for the mountains - there are 3 evenings which are definitely cooler! When looking at the distances it's worth noting there are quite a few hills in there! If you are weighing up going away on your own, just do it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
This was my first [tour operator] trip and I would definitely do another!

Such a colourful country and warm-hearted people too. Was truly amazed by the wildlife. Not often that you’re cycling along a highway and a monkey crosses the road or you’re relaxing in a pool with a Toucan above your head. The cycling was different to that experienced in other countries. Less miles but more hills. I learned how to tackle hills better and my cycling skills definitely improved as a result. Cycling around a volcano I almost had my jaw on the ground as I watched a little curl of smoke disappear into the clouds. Amazing holiday!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
I’m not sure I can pick one moment! Possibly indulging in the hot springs warmed by the volcanoes looking up at the moon on a beautiful starry night

What did you think of your group leader?
Roberto was a truly lovely guide who helped our lovely group of 14 bond very quickly. He and his lovely team were so accommodating and caring. I have to say a big thank you to Paulo our mechanic who gave me the toughest spinning lesson of my life in action! I was ready to quit and walk on that day but you kept me in the saddle my friend! Thank you

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Check the mileage and terrain and temperatures before booking. I would have liked a bit more cycling personally but it was very hot and it had its benefits arriving at the next hotel in good time to shower and relax and just enjoy the country

Had a time of my life waking up to howling monkeys, birds singing, tropical fruits/flowers, lush scenery at our doorstep....while climbing hills that of course were challenging at times, but that was part of the excitement. I am eternally grateful for the joy this trip bought me. Still smiling when wake up in the morning as I can't believe I can say .... been there, done that and happily do it again! Pura Vida to all the lovely people in Costa Rica.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The National Park and wild life has to be the top, although there were many others!

What did you think of your group leader?
Roberto, our top leader were professional, knowledgeable and accommodating at all times. Nothing seemed trouble to him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
I felt very safe not just when cycling, but throughout the trip. Police presence on highways are visible as well as in remote areas. Try to travel lightly as you staying in different hotels every night and our tour guides had to carry, load and off load all the luggages!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you don't like beautiful mountains/vulcanoes, amazing wildlife, stunning sunrise/sunsets, humble people then this trip is not for you!

If great cycling, stunning scenery (not everyday you have a volcano as your backdrop), abundant wildlife and delicious food is what you want - this is the trip for you. Pura Vida !

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The visit to to Manuel Antonio Wildlife Park and. seeing the wildlife in their natural habitat.

What did you think of your group leader?
Roberto, a super group leader who did his absolute best to ensure that each member of the group got the best out of the trip.

This was a challenging trip with a mixture of hard and easy cycling covering a number of different areas of this beautiful country. We had a good mixed group who gelled together very quickly and which made the time together very enjoyable. The trip covered many beautiful areas of Costa Rica with many opportunities to see the wild life and dramatic land and sea scapes.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The cycling was great and at times the challenges of the hilly sections appeared daunting but ended being conquered. Throughout the cycling there were many vantage points reached which afforded fantastic views of the scenery. Many opportunities also to see some wild life and colourful bird life. The weather was generally very good with only travelling through the rain forest zone being damp as expected. The local people were great too. Always appeared a happy and friendly throughout the travels.

What did you think of your group leader?
Andres Ramirez was our group leader and he proved to be an excellent ambassador for his country and company with exceptional knowledge of it’s history and it’s geography. His organisational skills sone through on a number of occasions when faced with some changes to the itinerary. On a personal note l will always be indebted to Andres when I had a bad accident on day 6 in the San Vito region. I came off the bike travelling downhill at speed. Luckily he was with me at the time and was able provide vital support in getting me to the local hospital and helping me through the difficult period of treatment there. Andres then ensured that any further medical attention I needed for the rest of the trip was arranged. He also managed in a professional and mature manner one or two difficult moments with two members of the group.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Please be sure that you read the trip notes before arriving in Costa Rica as it was clear some had not. Be aware that there are a number of different climates in the country wet,dry,hot, cool conditions were all experienced. Understand the staple food for Costa Rica as this will be what you will encounter for the majority of the trip. The hotels and lodges were generally of a good standard and for one night stopovers were ideal in many occasions but don’t expect 5 star accommodation. And be careful going downhill too fast as I experienced!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
[The tour operator] continues to provide the opportunity to see some great countries in an environment where you get to see the geography, wildlife and people at first hand. This was our third trip covering Asia and now Central America and on the experiences we have had to date - even with my accident, we will do more.

This is my 4th [tour operator] cycle trip and it was great experience again. Very well organised on the ground with a great guide and support crew. Bikes were excellent and very well maintained throughout the trip. This trip is great for seeing all manner of wildlife and we were not disappointed. The weather was really nice except for one morning when it was cool and windy. I think this is really a wildlife trip first and a cycling trip second. Be sure that is what you are signing up to, there are better cycling trips I would say. The cycling is generally as graded with some decent steep climbs in places but most of it is quite manageable. My only comment would be that some of the rides don't seem to connect to each other very well and so it can feel a bit 'bitty' from day to day. Some great descents too! Accommodation is variable, some is excellent however a couple of places were poor but the standard in Costa Rica seemed pretty average to me anyway. Food is generally good but can be a bit repetitive at breakfast and lunch. Good standard generally. Drinks are not expensive if you keep to local beers. Most wine is imported. You can take/use either Dollars or Colones, both accepted virtually everywhere we went. Overall its well worth doing this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
The boat tour through the Tortuguero National Park on Christmas Day! Such a tranquil place and so much to see, Cayman Crocs were the star attraction but there was so much more to see. Great trip and so well pointed out by both the boat driver and our Exodus guide Andreus. Cycling on the beach at Playa Esterillos and the subsequent sunset with a cold beer! Seeing bananas being transported across a road like a level crossing stopping the traffic on a ski lift type carrier, now i know where they come from!

What did you think of your group leader?
Andreus was a great guide, very knowledgeable about the wildlife and everything Costa Rica. He also was very well organised and had everything covered all of the time. Good sense of humour and easy to get along with. His support crew of Paulo on bike maintenance and always at the rear of the group was brilliant, an ex-pro-cyclist and so bikes were his life. Great motivator on the hills and so funny too! Lastly supported by Lausen the cool chilled one driving the bus and sorting everything else it seemed. Top rate team and very professional.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take sun protection and bug spray...and use it! Due to humidity drying of clothes can be difficult, take spare cycle shorts. Handle-bar bag is useful for camera and phone etc. Take a decent camera, compact with a decent zoom is ideal on the bike but otherwise a SLR wit a decent zoom. Lots of photo opportunities.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
I liked Costa Rica, it felt a safe and a friendly place to go on holiday. Go early or stay over and do some extra days in Peninsula de Nicoya for example which we did, great opportunity to see more of this wonderful country. We also booked a water rafting day on the last day whilst waiting for the return flight. WIFI can be great to non-existent despite what you are told at each venue. That's how it is!