The Wilderness & Folklore of Costa Rica
Are you ready to embark on a new adventure full of wildlife, medicinal plants & mushrooms, and plenty of knowledge?
This is the opportunity to get out of the classroom and learn in Nature all the wisdom and science at once. Our tailored courses are the gateway for accessing the authentic Costa Rican vibe and skipping touristic routes, whilst living an intense unfiltered experience. Together we’ll walk through the lush cloudforests, pristine waterfalls, botanical gardens and cultural sites of the South Pacific.
What you will do
You will be guided in private excursions by Elisa Fusi, biologist and mycologist with an expertise on medicinal plants and Latin American Folklore. There are several options to pick, depending on your choice. Every day we organize together classes and interactive trips to the following natural spots:
- Natural Reserve Cloudbridge in the Talamanca mountains (up to 2600 m elevation). 255 hectares of cattle pasture and cultivated land with a further 28 hectares of primary forest has been purchased by the reserve. Since it’s beginning, Cloudbridge has been dedicated to the conservation and reforestation of the cloudforest. Here you can observe rare wildlife like the Resplendent Quetzal Bird and the majestic tapyr, spectacular waterfalls and views.
- Sendero de los Gigantes, a magical hike in the Chirripò Valley passing through pools, rivers and dense forest paths leading to the high hills. The ideal place to observe many plants and mushrooms with a slow, conscious pace and have a refreshing bath along the way. At the top there are a restaurant with local food and hammocks with a stunning view of the mountains.
- Chirripò Botanical Garden & Orchid Sanctuary, a private garden with numerous species of medicinal plants and a collection of native orchids. Colorful hummingbirds and butterflies give a picturesque essence to this community rural project at the foothills of the mountains. A perfect stop for studying edibles and traditional uses of plants whilst sipping the best coffee of Costa Rica,
- Hot Springs and Waterfalls located in San Gerardo, a lovely town full of life. Here we can observe iguanas and basilisks bordering the river. Hidden paths are ready to be walked and a few kilometers away it’s possible to visit the characteristic hanging bridge. Both private and public pools are available.
- Coffee and Cacao Farm in Rivas. Traditional preparation and ethnobotanical tasty food.
- Talamanca Natural Reserve. Intense hikes to the highest tops.
- Cheese family factory in Canaan. A great spot for cheese making.
Longer Stays
For at least a one-week stay it is possible to plan a trip to the Indigenous areas located South, where to learn the vibrant culture and traditions of the Boruca people. Some of the activities are:
- Boruca Masks practical workshop
- Ethnobotanical tour to the village
- MadreMonte community project
- Alexander Skutch Bird Sanctuary
Food & Lodging
Several options are available for lodging. Simple cabins in the forest or independent cottages with mountain views. Food is included in the total price and can be tailored depending on your dietary needs. We support local businesses and small family projects, so we will introduce you to the restaurants and shops in the area. We are committed to promote a rural and sustainable tourism in respect of people and environment.
Duration & Costs
We tailor your stay and together we make the price. Minimum stays are 2 days. It is also possible to plan visits with small groups.
Inclusions:
- Guided trips and entry fees
- Tailored classes and educational material
- Food and lodging
- Transfers to/from selected sites
- Tailored activities
Exclusions:
- Round trip airfare to Costa Rica
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Laundry Services
- Travel Insurance
- Transportation outside of included excursions
- Meals outside of the trips
It is possible to schedule a private shuttle to/from San Jose for a fair price upon request.