Discover Costa Rica WUC - fabulous trip! Clearly a well thought out itinerary to explore the many different regions and ecosystems of Costa Rica. Timings worked very well but all you ever wished for was more time in each location but this would then make it a 3 week trip! No matter how much literature you read before the trip the diversity is amazing and just how much is packed into this small country is incredible; the wildlife, the insects, reptiles and plants exceed all expectations. Each location is so different you just never tire of what you will see next. We went on a bird watching departure, this suited both nature lovers and more serious 'birders' alike. I believe we saw and appreciated so much more due to this type of departure - would recommend it highly.
Good to see the country but not my favourite. I think I might have fall too much in love with the relative remoteness and untourist nature of Patagonia and the Galapagos Islands. Costa Rica has embrassed tourism and while it 'sells itself' as eco orientated I was left unconvinced. I think the animals and birds are disappearing, at least moving away from where the humans are. We toured a lot of the country on unmade roads which was a good part of the adventure, travelling from the swamps, to volcanoes, to rainforest, to the coast, the jungle and the mountains. We did see a lazing sloth in a tree by the road and hummingbirds defying any attempt to be photographed with their speed and agility. There were some nice touches, the trip the school and the homstead in the mountains.
The country more than lived up to expectations. The emphasis on conservation provided some memorable moments. Hotels and lodges were above average and those with pools were a bonus after a long day of enjoyment.