Barra Honda has a fascinating cave system with limestone reefs that look pretty cool. These reefs started forming about 60 million years ago due to some tectonic action. Over time, they've turned into a bunch of separate caves with awesome stalactites and stalagmites inside.   Currently, only about half of these caves have been explored by scientists and cave enthusiasts. But don't fret, you can still experience the adventure by visiting Velvet Cave, which is open to regular folks looking for some thrills. It's a safe option for both newbies and seasoned cave explorers.   Your adventure begins with a pleasant hike through the forest. When you reach the cave, they'll outfit you with the right gear and lower you down a ladder into the cave's depths. You'll have about an hour to explore and check out formations that took millions of years to shape.   Just a heads-up, though: if you've got high blood pressure, get dizzy easily, or don't like tight spaces, it's probably best to skip this adventure for safety reasons.

Nestled in the heart of the lush Guanacaste grass plains, Hacienda El Viejo stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Costa Rica, surrounded by vibrant sugarcane fields and the majestic Rio Tempisque, the lifeline of the Blue Zone of Costa Rica. This historic estate, boasting a house with over 150 years of history and once the residence of presidents from both Costa Rica and Nicaragua, welcomes you to embark on a unique journey that fuses the artistry of craft beer and the magic of premium rum, all in one unforgettable experience. Our adventure begins with the first-ever Costa Rican Rum Experience by Sabandi, where you'll connect with the earth and explore your roots. Immerse yourself in the entire process of creating exceptional rum from the purest sugarcane. Witness the traditional extraction and artisanal cooking of sugarcane juice, culminating in the distillation process, which yields the first liquors of the highest purity. Your next destination is our Rickhouse, where time and oak barrels work in harmony to enhance the flavors of Sabandi Rum. Each sip tells a unique story, showcasing the distinct characteristics and differences of our aged, on-site distilled Sabandi rum. But the adventure doesn't end there. Continue your journey with our Brewery Experience, where you'll learn about the fascinating process of crafting excellent quality beer. Accompanied by our knowledgeable brewer guide, you'll gain insights into the key ingredients and meticulous processes that go into making our artisanal beers, all produced with the finest ingredients. Our beers stand out not only for their quality but also for the unique element of pure spring water sourced from one of the world's five Blue Zone areas, including the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. As part of the Brewery Experience, you'll have the opportunity to taste a variety of craft beer styles, including Blond Ale, Summer Ale, IPA, and many more. Each beer is crafted with high-end yeast, high-quality cereals, and exclusive water profiles from our Costa Rican Blue Zone, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Conclude this unforgettable fusion experience with a delicious cocktail made using Sabandi Rum, all while taking in the stunning views of our lagoon. Relax, soak in the serene ambiance, and enjoy the beauty of one of the most emblematic haciendas from the last century in the North Pacific of Costa Rica. This Beer and Rum Fusion Experience at Hacienda El Viejo promises to be a sensory journey like no other, where history, tradition, and craftsmanship unite in a celebration of Costa Rica's finest spirits and brews.

Immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and traditions of Costa Rica’s Blue Zone with this unique culinary adventure. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into an authentic open-air kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature — the perfect setting for a cultural and gastronomic journey.   Guided by a local cook, you’ll learn ancestral techniques passed down through generations, preparing traditional recipes using wholesome, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region. Feel the warmth of the wood-fired stove and the clay oven as you grind, knead, and season with your own hands, discovering the secrets of a cuisine that has nourished one of the world’s longest-living communities.   The experience culminates in a special shared meal — either lunch or dinner — where you’ll sit down to savor the very dishes you helped prepare. Each bite tells a story of heritage and sustainability, from handmade tortillas and slow-cooked stews to fresh vegetables and natural flavors straight from the land. As you enjoy your meal, you’ll not only taste but also feel the spirit of the Chorotega culture — a celebration of health, longevity, and togetherness.   This is more than a cooking class; it’s a cultural encounter and an unforgettable dining experience that connects you to the heart of Guanacaste’s Blue Zone.

Mega Combo Adventure    Pack several of Costa Rica's signature experiences into one action-filled day at Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Zip-line through the forest, race down a 1,400-foot jungle waterslide, experience local traditions, enjoy a Costa Rican lunch, explore volcanic trails on horseback and finish the adventure relaxing in natural hot springs and volcanic mud baths.   Zip-Line Through the Forest   Start your adventure in the treetops with a canopy zip-line tour along the slopes of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Soar above the forest and take in views of the surrounding volcanic landscape as you make your way through the canopy.   Take on the 1,400-Foot Jungle Waterslide   Next comes one of the day's biggest adrenaline rushes. Cool off on a 1,400-foot jungle waterslide, racing through the tropical surroundings on a fast and refreshing ride.   Experience Costa Rican Traditions   Slow things down with live demonstrations of traditional pottery and tortilla making, offering a glimpse into local Costa Rican culture. Then sit down for a traditional Costa Rican lunch before continuing your adventure.   Explore Volcanic Trails on Horseback   Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride along volcanic trails, experiencing the natural surroundings of Rincón de la Vieja at a more relaxed pace.   Relax in Hot Springs & Volcanic Mud   Finish your day by unwinding in the volcanic landscape. Enjoy natural hot springs, sauna and steam rooms, volcanic mud baths and peaceful jungle pools—the perfect ending after a full day of adventure.   Zip-line. Waterslide. Culture. Horseback. Hot springs. One incredible day at Rincón de la Vieja.

Discover the living traditions of Guanacaste in this immersive cultural journey that blends history, craftsmanship, and authentic flavors.   Your experience begins in Guaitil, a village renowned for its centuries-old Chorotega pottery. Guided by local artisans, you’ll learn about the ancestral techniques passed down through generations and take part in a hands-on workshop, creating your very own ceramic piece to treasure as a keepsake.   From there, you’ll head to Casa Santacultura, where the heart of Guanacaste’s culinary heritage comes alive. In an interactive cooking class, you’ll prepare traditional recipes using fresh, local ingredients and time-honored methods, cooking over a wood-fired stove and clay oven. The highlight of the day is sharing a delicious lunch made from the very dishes you’ve prepared — a true taste of Chorotega culture.   To complete the experience, unwind with some time at the pool, enjoying the serene surroundings and warm hospitality of Casa Santacultura. This tour is the perfect combination of creativity, culture, and relaxation — an authentic Guanacaste experience you’ll never forget.

Costa Rica has so much natural beauty to offer and is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. We have some of the world's most idyllic beaches, pristine mountains, green jungles, active volcanoes, and so much more. With so many microclimates it’s not surprising that we also make some of the world's best coffee and chocolate. If you want to take an “off the beaten path” cultural tour to learn about the process of how the bean turns into a delicious cup of coffee then look no further. Situated in Guardia de Liberia, Guanacaste, you can learn about this cultural secret from the makers of Cafe Tio Leo. You’ll even be able to sample the products you learn about! We suggest you bring hiking shoes, bug spray, long pants, and sunscreen.  * Not available on Sundays.

While you're savoring the wonders of Guanacaste here in Costa Rica, it's worth noting that our neighboring country, Nicaragua, is just a short two-hour ride away. Why not make the most of your time in Central America and add another stamp to your passport? It's a great way to impress your friends and family with your travel adventures when you return home. Despite sharing a border, Nicaragua and Costa Rica offer vastly different experiences.   Nicaragua boasts the distinction of hosting the oldest European-founded city in Central America, Granada. This charming city is a treasure trove of centuries-old colonial architecture, with around 20 colonial-era churches gracing its streets.   During your visit, we'll also take you to explore the Masaya Volcano, offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the pristine natural beauty of the region. The majestic Maderas and Conception volcanoes, both rising dramatically from Lake Nicaragua, create the stunning island of Ometepe, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape.   *Overnight Option available. Does not include hotel or next day tours.

Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? This river tour combines a series of elements in which nature and traditions are interlaced. Take a relaxing boat ride through the majestic mangroves, swamp forests, saltwater and freshwater lagoons, marshes, and evergreen forests of the Palo Verde National Park. The park focuses on conserving vital floodplains, marshes, limestone ridges, and seasonal pools from the encroachment of civilization to mitigate the risk to the ecology. A major feature is the density and variety of bird species, a substantial factor that led to the creation of the reserve, due in part to its diverse ecology.   After the riverboat tour takes you along a stretch of the Tempisque River Conservation Area, we will return to land and take you through villages and cattle ranches, towards Matambú Coffee Plantation to enjoy the incomparable flavor of Costa Rican coffee and culture.

Embark on a nostalgic journey through time, where you can relive the past and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of our grandparents. Start your adventure at the renowned "Trapiche" mill, where the age-old process of extracting sugar cane juice unfolds before your eyes. Watch as an ox, tethered to a yoke, tirelessly turns a "needle" to facilitate the cane's entry into the mill, revealing the secrets of juice extraction. As part of this immersive experience, indulge in slices of sugar cane, raw sugar known as "tapa de dulce," and, of course, freshly squeezed sugar cane juice. After savoring these sweet delights, transport yourself to a bygone era reminiscent of Guanacaste's old ranches, as you visit "La Casa del Sabanero" (The Sabanero Farm). Here, you'll have the opportunity to savor a traditional Guanacaste meal featuring delights like "tanelas," "empanaditas," and "rosquillas," all baked in a wood oven and prepared with corn, just as our grandmothers did. Ever wondered how to make a tortilla? Well, "La Casa del Sabanero" is your chance to learn. The skilled women at this cultural haven will teach you the art of making tortillas, just as it's done in Guanacaste. To complete this memorable experience, accompany your "tanelas," "empanaditas," "rosquillas," tortillas, and cheese with a delightful cup of coffee or natural fruit juice. This journey through time and culture promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation of the rich heritage of Guanacaste.