What happens when you finally book a trip to a long-time bucket-list destination? You come back with memories, stories worth retelling, and sometimes a souvenir you never planned on buying. For Mircea, his journey through Costa Rica and Panama delivered all three, including a capybara souvenir.
Panama had been sitting on his travel wish list for years, so when he came across the right small-group tour on Bookmundi, the decision was easy. He booked Costa Rica & Panama Discoveryfor a December departure, with a promise of a well-paced itinerary, the promise of shared experiences and new adventures.
Traveling Solo, Together
Joining a guided group tour turned out to be part of the adventure itself. Traveling alone but surrounded by like-minded people, Mircea found company for everything from activities during the day to story-swapping over dinner at night. The trip balanced active exploration with time to slow down, uncovering rainforests, wildlife, beaches, and a side of Panama that goes well beyond the canal. Below, Mircea shares his experience in his own words.
Q: What made you choose a group tour? A: Being able to share the experience with like minded people and skip the hustle of searching for all kinds of details.
Q: The trip you booked was a guided tour. How did it feel to travel with a guide on this tour? Would you travel with a guide again? Why or why not? A: We had the honor to have Armando as a guide. He's very knowledgeable about both countries and does a fantastic job to have the trip running smoothly. His laugh and good spirit are a valuable asset to the warm vibes of the places. Having a guide is definitely of value and in each location there's space to explore on your own.
1) A guide showing a traditional mask in Chitre. 2) A surf coach teaching travelers the basics of surfing in Bocas del Toro. Photos by Mircea.
Q: How was it joining a trip to Costa Rica & Panama as a solo traveler? A: It was fun to share the activities with like minded people. For each activity there was someone that wanted to join and fun to re-join the group at dinner time to tell stories.
Q: How is it to travel Costa Rica & Panama as an Experienced Traveler (40 - 59 age range) traveler? Would you recommend Costa Rica & Panama to other experienced travelers, and why? A: Both Costa Rica and Panama offer activities for all ages. From active hiking, snorkeling and surfing to laying on the beach or the shore or relaxing on a terrace with live music. Both countries are wonderful places to discover and enjoy, regardless of the age.
Joining a group tour with like-minded travelers allows you to experience and enjoy many activities. Photos from Mircea's trip.
Q: Did the tour meet your expectations? Why or why not? A: There was a good balance between being active and just taking it all in. The tour reaches some of the nicest places in both countries. In the end, I was left wanting to spend more days, as there are so many spots to visit and experience, and Armando had done a great job promoting them.
Q: Were there any parts of the trip that surprised you in terms of quality or value? A: Everything was as expected, though after visiting many countries, it is hard to be really surprised.
Q: What made you choose this trip, and was it for a special occasion (e.g., anniversary, birthday, family reunion)? A: I went on this trip as Panama was on my list of countries to visit.
Q: Which destinations, cities, or highlights did you cover on your trip, and which stood out the most? A: The best part of the tour was Bocas del Toro, especially with the surfing and the visit to Cayo Zapatilla. Taking the public bus was a good opportunity to observe and interact with the locals, giving a more personal flavor to the trip. The nature and animals in Sarapiqui and Boquete are a great way to experience more than the ocean and beaches.
Caribbean blues and island views at Cayo Zapatilla. Photo by Mircea.
Exploring the islands of Cayos Zapatilla is one of best activities in Panama. Photo by Mircea.
Q: What was a memorable moment or story from your journey that you’d like to highlight? A: Seeing baby sloths hanging to their mums was a very much expected and memorable moment for the entire group.
Q: What were your favorite activities or excursions, and why? A: My favorite activity was surfing in Bocas del Toro. It's an excellent beach for beginners and the surf guide was excellent.
Q: Did you try any local food or cultural experiences that you would recommend? A: With every meal I was looking for some new local dish. I enjoyed the patacones and the seafood the most.
Q: Did you have any unique interactions with locals, guides, or fellow travelers that made your trip special? A: There were some interactions with the locals in the public bus. All the activities guides were very friendly and sociable, open to chit-chat about everything.
Q: Did this trip change your perspective on the destination, travel, or life in any way? A: I was surprised to see that Panama is much more than the canal. It offers so much for a tourist, so many places and things to experience and enjoy.
Q: What was the biggest surprise you encountered during your trip to Costa Rica & Panama (positive or unexpected)? A: The biggest surprise for me was to see how fast the sloths are moving. They're not slow at all. The second biggest was how small the 2 countries are and how little time it takes to travel around, especially from ocean to ocean.
Q: Looking back, what was the best part of your entire journey? A: The best part was the days spent by the sea and enjoying the rain forest with the sloths.
Q: If you could relive one day of your trip, which day would it be and why? A: Almost each day had a good highlight. Probably surfing and Zapatilla are something that I would come back to experience again.
Q: What would you say to someone considering this tour or destination? A: Panama is definitely worth visiting at least once. It offers so much for so many tastes. This tour has a good balance of discovering the country for the first time.
A sneak peek into the life of Ngabe-Bugle, an indigenous community in Isla Popa, Panama. Photo by Mircea.
Q: Any funny or unexpected stories from your trip you’d like to share? A: "Don't worry, be Capy" was written on a t-shirt I saw in Costa Rica. Later on we found some bouncy capybara toys (made of foam) and they quickly became the must have souvenirs for the entire group.
Q: Any tips or things you wish you’d known before going on a trip to Costa Rica & Panama? A: Better spend no extra time in San Jose and add extra days to visit San Blas or Valle de Anton. Ferry tickets to Taboga in Panama city are better to be booked several days ahead.
Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike will find their perfect getaway with the "Costa Rica Nature Escape." This multi-day vacation package delivers a concentrated experience of Costa Rica’s wild beauty, combining guided wildlife tours, high-quality hotels, and deluxe transport. Journey from San José into the wildlife-rich canals of Tortuguero National Park, where a private naturalist guide helps you spot elusive creatures. Hike up Tortuguero Hill, then continue to La Fortuna for a swim beneath the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall and views of the mighty Arenal Volcano. This flash tour is ideal for experienced travelers with limited time, delivering a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and rich biodiversity—the USP being expert-led, private wildlife exploration in just a few action-packed days.
Craving a taste of Costa Rica’s wild side? The "Costa Rica Explorer" trip invites adventurous young adults and seasoned explorers to experience ten days packed with outdoor thrills and natural marvels. Starting in the bustling capital of San José, this journey sweeps you through some of the nation’s most iconic destinations: marvel at the steaming Poas Volcano, wander the lush trails of La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and explore the rainforests of Sarapiqui teeming with wildlife.
Adventure is at your fingertips, whether you’re hiking under the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano or relaxing in its soothing hot springs. The adventure continues with time at Potrero Beach in sunny Guanacaste, where you can choose from a variety of activities, making this trip highly customizable for every type of explorer. As you traverse Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes, each day brings new opportunities to discover vibrant flora and fauna, all under the guidance of an expert team.
The unique selling point of this tour lies in its flexible approach—blending nature hikes, adventure sports, and opportunities for cultural discovery, ensuring every guest finds their perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. For those eager to immerse themselves in the pura vida lifestyle and explore the country’s top outdoor gems, this tour package delivers an unforgettable, action-filled journey.
Costa Rica’s wild heart is yours to explore on this 15-day "Discover Costa Rica" wildlife tour, meticulously crafted for seniors seeking adventure with comfort. Traverse lush rainforests, relax on both Caribbean and Pacific shores, and spot captivating wildlife—from sloths and howler monkeys to green turtles and toucans—with the help of expert guides. The itinerary includes San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, La Fortuna, and more, balancing active exploration with moments of relaxation. The tour’s unique feature: access to some of the world’s richest biodiversity, all while traveling in a well-supported, small-group setting, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable nature getaway.
Costa Rica’s wild coasts come alive on the "Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets" tour, a 15-day moderate-activity journey designed with seniors in mind. Explore hidden animal hotspots from the Caribbean to the Pacific, guided by expert wildlife leaders. Cruise Tortuguero’s waterways for monkeys and birds, trek through Corcovado’s rainforests seeking sloths and scarlet macaws, and snorkel the vibrant reefs of Caño Island. The USP? This small group tour package is a rare chance to access Costa Rica’s best-kept wildlife secrets, blending relaxed exploration with unforgettable close encounters in one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
From steaming jungles to sun-kissed beaches, the Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday serves up 15 days of pure excitement for families and nature lovers. Starting and ending in San Jose, this wildlife tour takes you deep into Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and vibrant national parks, including Arenal Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall. Cruise the Tortuguero canals searching for monkeys and toucans, share an unforgettable encounter at the famous Sloth Sanctuary, and embark on a night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife. Options like white-water rafting and splashing in hot springs ensure there’s something for every adventurer. The trip also includes time to unwind along both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts—in Cahuita and Manuel Antonio—where rainforests meet white sand beaches. Designed for families eager to bond over shared discovery, the highlight of this tour is its unique blend of wildlife encounters, hands-on activities, and downtime, all set against the backdrop of Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Spark curiosity and adventure in your family with the Costa Rica Family Experience, a 9-day wildlife trip crafted for curious kids and adults alike. Journey from San Jose to the cloud forests and the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, studying exotic flora and fauna up close, both day and night. The itinerary balances educational activities—like observing wildlife—with active pursuits including rappelling, rafting, swimming, horseback riding, and even surfing. All accommodations, meals, and transport are included, ensuring a stress-free holiday for families. The USP: an engaging blend of hands-on biology, ecology, and adventure, making learning and play inseparable in the heart of Costa Rica.
Lush jungles, volcanic hot springs, and wildlife-filled rainforests—"Costa Rica Adventure" is a 10-day trip made for young adults eager to discover the world’s most diverse eco-system. Beginning in San Jose and ending in Punta Arenas, this guided group tour combines rainforest exploration with vibrant local culture.
Kick off your journey by connecting with locals in the rural village of Coope San Juan, then unwind in La Fortuna’s volcanic hot springs. Night safaris in Monteverde bring you face-to-face with Costa Rica’s famed wildlife, while the adventure continues with ziplining through cloud forest canopies and relaxing sunset yoga on the sands of Santa Teresa.
This trip’s unique selling point is its blend of thrilling adventure activities and immersive cultural experiences, offering a genuine taste of Costa Rica’s wild beauty and warm hospitality. With included accommodation, transport, and meals, this tour package is the perfect choice for travelers looking to experience the true essence of "pura vida."
Imagine waking to the symphony of the rainforest, where vibrant wildlife and lush canopies define your days—welcome to the heart of Costa Rica. This 12-day guided tour begins and ends in San Jose, weaving through must-see destinations like Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano, and Manuel Antonio National Park. Crafted for seasoned explorers and senior travelers seeking a moderate level of activity, this trip balances engaging adventure with comfort.
Your journey takes you deep into emerald jungles, where two nights at a secluded San Carlos resort and three nights amid Arenal’s geothermal wonders promise immersion in nature. Wander across hanging bridges suspended above the rainforest floor, and choose between hiking the dramatic lava fields of Arenal Volcano or soaring over the treetops on a thrilling zip line experience. At Tortuguero National Park, participate in sea turtle conservation at a research station—an opportunity to give back to local preservation efforts.
Unique to this tour are hands-on encounters: sample fresh cacao at a local plantation and join a crocodile safari or a leisurely bird-watching cruise through the rainforest’s winding waterways. The tour’s thoughtful itinerary assures there’s always time to absorb the sights and sounds, whether you’re crossing the misty bridges of Arenal or relaxing by Manuel Antonio’s pristine beaches.
With all accommodations, transport, meals, and guided excursions included, this group tour lets you focus fully on the wonder that is Costa Rica. The standout feature? A rare blend of wildlife encounters and authentic local interaction, all experienced in comfort and with the assurance of expert guidance. For those eager to discover what pura vida truly means, this tour package offers an unforgettable exploration of Costa Rica’s natural treasures.
Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and abundant wildlife take center stage on the "Natural Highlights of Costa Rica" trip, curated with a relaxed pace for seniors eager to savor nature’s wonders. Starting and ending in San Jose, this eight-day guided tour winds through the biodiverse realms of La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, and Tortuguero National Park, where vibrant flora and fauna abound.
With more than 850 recorded bird species and a stunning variety of endemic plants and animals, Costa Rica stands as a paradise for nature lovers. Daily excursions are gentle and accessible, focusing on wildlife viewing, scenic walks, and immersive experiences that don’t demand strenuous activity. Comfortable lodgings and well-organized transport ensure a worry-free journey.
The unique selling point of this tour package is its exceptional access to some of the world’s richest biodiversity—perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in natural beauty without the rush. From rainforest canopies to volcanic landscapes, every moment is designed to delight and inspire, making this an unforgettable getaway for those with a passion for the wild.
Costa Rica’s rainforests and golden beaches form a playground like no other on this nine-day Costa Rica Family Journey: From Rainforest to Coast tour. Starting in San Jose, the adventure takes families through Monteverde’s cloud forests, misty volcanic trails in Rincon de la Vieja, and on to the Pacific’s Gold Coast for sun and surf. With easy-paced activities such as zip lining, horseback riding, and gentle hikes, this tour ensures fun and discovery for all ages. The standout feature is its seamless blend of inland jungle thrills and seaside relaxation, offering a holistic experience of Costa Rica’s rich natural wonders.
What happens when you blend Costa Rica’s iconic wonders with hidden wild corners? The "Costa Rica Adventure" tour delivers a dynamic 16-day wildlife trip, ideal for young adults, experienced travelers, and anyone drawn to nature’s wildest playgrounds. Beginning and ending in San Jose, this adventure winds through lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and idyllic beaches, covering Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero National Park, and six other vibrant destinations.
Expect a moderate activity level—perfect for those who love to stay active but appreciate flexibility. Guided excursions are balanced with ample free time, letting you set your own pace. Hike through misty cloud forests, spot monkeys and sloths in dense jungle, or glide by boat through crocodile-filled canals. Optional adrenaline-boosting experiences abound, from zip-lining to white-water rafting, or you can take it easy with a peaceful stroll through a butterfly garden.
What sets this trip apart is the sheer biodiversity and the variety of experiences on offer. Encounter rare wildlife, marvel at dramatic volcanoes, and soak up the relaxed pura vida lifestyle. Friendly guides share their deep local knowledge, ensuring you get the most out of each stop—whether you’re seeking adventure or moments of quiet connection with nature.
If you’re searching for a tour package that’s as rich in wildlife encounters as it is in adventure options, this Costa Rican journey promises both excitement and discovery at every turn.
Craving both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise? The 9-day "Tropical Costa Rica" tour offers a moderate-activity journey through rainforests, cloud forests, and pristine beaches. Starting in San Jose and ending in Guanacaste, this guided trip is ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s lush scenery and abundant wildlife.
Enjoy uninterrupted views of Arenal Volcano from your hotel, then set out on a riverboat exploration through the 20,000-acre Cano Negro nature preserve. Spend two nights in the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, where you can choose between a serene hanging bridges walk or an exhilarating zip lining adventure through the treetops. Cap off your trip with a two-night stay at Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste, soaking up the sun on breathtaking sandy beaches.
With all accommodations, transport, and meals included, this group tour’s standout feature is the blend of rainforest thrills and coastal relaxation, making it the perfect trip package for those eager to discover Costa Rica’s diverse natural wonders.
For Akriti, writing found her long before her love for travel did; she blames her acute motion sickness for the delayed onset of the latter. But when the two interests did meet, it resulted in many memorable (and sometimes revolting) travel stories. As a traveler, she enjoys challenging treks as much as lazy walks on the beach. She hates road trips unless it is on the back of a truck or a motorbike. She loves good food; even more so when paired with a local drink.
Readers will find her writing to be much like her hometown of Kathmandu—rich, soulful and quirky.
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