This is an explore Costa Rica trip similar to the one we did in 2022 with modifications based on what we loved about our first trip.

First of all, we are spending 2 nights in the Paos Volcano Lodge. We really loved that place, walked the grounds, did bird watching from the parking lot, and had great meals. This year we are staying an extra day and there is an option for a add on to do a resplendent Quetzal birding tour.

On the way to the Tabacon we will hit the La Paz Waterfall Garden Park that is full of rescued local animals and a really cool butterfly house. It is a great stop.

But main modification to the trip (and the biggest driver of trip cost) is 2 nights at the Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa. We didn’t stay there last time but we loved it! This resort is on the side of the volcano, and the river that runs down the side is geothermal warmed. Tabacon has captured and redirected this river into a least 20 different hot tub like pools of various sizes. Including the one at the bottom which is a swim up bar. We had so much fun there drinking out of pineapples. This is the spot to kick back and relax – the spa here is famous (not cheap) – but if that is not not your style there are wildlife tour and class III whitewater rafting tours.

Transfer Day to the Gaunacaste Beach resort, Bosque Del Mar, includes a sloth trek and lunch, and the next day starts the 2 days of diving we are doing on this trip. The diving in Costa Rica is unique and worth experiencing, but IMO 2 days is good. It is a bit chilly, but they have 5mms if you need them. Also, if you want to extend the trip, and some of the hard core divers will, then there is an add on for that. For those that can take or leave the diving, there is an option to go rafting.