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The Best Excursions and Day Trips in Costa Rica

The Best Excursions and Day Trips in Costa Rica

sunset on the water

The Best Excursions and Day Trips in Costa Rica

If you’re visiting the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, then you may want to consider renting an all-inclusive private villa for your stay.  Villa de la Luna is a large, spacious property, perfect for a family vacation. Boasting great amenities and ocean views, Villa de la Luna is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica. See some of the best activities and excursions you can take in the Guanacaste region of the country and beyond. 

With pristine natural environments, incredible volcanoes and blissful beaches, there is so much to keep you occupied in Costa Rica

Sunset Boat Cruise

One of Guanacaste province’s finest beaches, Ocotal Beach also makes the perfect embarkation point for a luxury Costa Rican sunset cruise. Located within walking distance of Villa de la Luna, the 65-foot Don Bosco motor sailboat can take groups (minimum 8 passengers) out into the open ocean for a sunset cruise with plenty of wine and snacks. Alternatively, the boat can be hired for a day trip, which includes lunch on a private beach. Prices start at $85 per person for a sunset cruise, great value for a truly memorable evening. If you’re visiting Costa Rica between August and April then you have a decent chance of spotting some of the huge migratory pods of humpback whales, which are present in Costa Rica’s waters during this time of year.

Arenal Volcano

Located in the heart of Arenal Volcano National Park, this patch of Costa Rica is home to some of the best scenery to be found anywhere in the country. The now-dormant volcano dominates the landscape and the surrounding area is littered with volcanic formations including hot springs. Day trips running from Villa de la Luna include all of your transportation and the services of bi-lingual tour guides. You will get two meals included with your day trip and will enjoy a cruise across Arenal Lake and a dip in some of the natural volcanic hot springs, as well as being able to walk around the volcano and explore some of the national parks. With a minimum group size of 4 passengers, prices are estimated at around $185 per person, though these can vary.

arenal volcano hike costa rica

Palo Verde National Park

Costa Rica is a wildlife haven, home to some incredible species. Palo Verde National Park is located within Guanacaste province and is the perfect place to delve into this biodiverse country’s wildlife without straying too far from your villa. A river cruise tour of the national park allows visitors to see the rich mangrove forests, marshes and dry forest habitats which are home to amazing wildlife. Crocodiles laze on the river banks, sloths move clumsily through the trees and toucans swoop overhead in colorful flocks. Your river cruise will include transportation, an English-speaking tour guide and lunch.

Cloud Forest Tour

Another of Costa Rica’s magical natural environments are its mountain forests, suspended in the clouds, hence their name. Costa Rica’s cloud forests are home to 2.5% of all the world’s biodiversity, and much of this can be seen on a trip to the region. There are also some incredible hanging bridges to experience, as long as you don’t mind heights! Our cloud forest tour includes all your transportation and sightseeing, along with breakfast and lunch. You’ll also get access to the hanging bridges and a tropical butterfly garden, as well as time spent watching the tiny hummingbirds which live in the forest. At just $190 per person (4 person minimum) for all of this, there is really no better way to experience the country’s magical environments.

Custom Tours

As well as the range of excursions we have on offer, we can also create custom tours for you, if there’s somewhere you’d like to visit that isn’t currently featured on our list of excursions. We can also combine some of the existing tours to make you a custom tour at a better price. Simply get in touch with us to discuss any custom tour ideas you may have; the team will be happy to help.

 

Villa de la Luna has plenty to keep guests busy, with its private pool, open bar and catered service, it’s important you also venture out and explore some of the incredible sights that Costa Rica has to offer. With pristine natural environments, incredible volcanoes and blissful beaches, there is so much to keep you occupied in the country. For more information about all of the day trips offered, please click here.

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COVID-19 Property Details

Your Safety Matters

Now more than ever, we are passionate about delivering an exceptional experience and truly memorable moments throughout your stay.

In response to current travel requirements surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, we have put together a reference list of frequently asked questions and top resources for additional information.

We look forward to welcoming you.

What Are the Safety Protocols at the Villa

Villa de la Luna prides itself on exceptional service and pristine conditions.

To ensure the safety of our guests and staff, the staff has increased routine cleaning and sanitation daily throughout the property. They also wear a mask at all times.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

All vaccinated guests and minors are not required to purchase travel insurance before their trip.

For non-vaccinated guests, proof of insurance must be shown when entering Costa Rica.

For more information about whether or not you’ll need travel insurance, please click here

For pricing and travel insurance packages available, please click here.

Are Masks Required Outside the Property?

Yes, Costa Rica prides itself on following and upholding CDC protocols. 

CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask over their nose and mouth when in public, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs such as airports and stations.

Do I Have to Provide a Negative COVID Test to Enter the Country?

No. But all U.S. tourists do need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to departure from the Villa. The same applies to tourists from other countries with layovers in the United States.

To learn more about the testing requirements and where you can get one, please click here.

Is the Staff Vaccinated?

Yes! All our staff members are fully vaccinated.

For more information regarding travel requirements, please click here to view the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica’s FAQ.

Contact Us Today!

5 Reasons Why You Should Travel to Costa Rica

5 Reasons Why You Should Travel to Costa Rica

costa rica travel

5 Reasons Why You Should Travel to Costa Rica

The Central American country of Costa Rica sometimes flies under the radar for travelers to Latin America, who prefer the larger heavy hitters such as Peru, Brazil, and Mexico. But in many ways, Costa Rica offers even more than these destinations for travelers. Pristine natural environments, active volcanoes, and blissful beaches are just some of the reasons you should make your next big adventure to Costa Rica. In this article, we’ll talk you through some of the main reasons why you should travel to Costa Rica.

Volcanoes

Costa Rica is a land dominated by volcanoes, making it perfect for an adventurous traveler. There are currently six active volcanoes in the country, as well as around 60 dormant ones. Many of these volcanoes are popular with travelers, who come to hike up to the craters and explore the surrounding scenery. Arenal volcano in the north of Costa Rica is probably the most popular, with natural hot springs and picturesque scenery to admire.

Beaches

The coastal areas of Costa Rica are as beautiful as inland. Guanacaste province in the north-west of the country is nicknamed the “Golden coast”, due to the sheer number of stunning sandy beaches that are on offer to travelers. Flamingo Beach, Playa Tamarindo and Playas del Coco are just some of the beaches on offer in the region, perfect for sunbathing, surfing and relaxing with your family. If you’re planning a beach break in Guanacaste, then why not rent out an all-inclusive villa with your friends or family? All the amenities of a luxury resort are included, with the added bonus of your privacy. Check out Villa de la Luna for more information.

Wildlife

Whilst many Latin American countries have sadly been desecrating their national environments, Costa Rica has long taken a different approach. The country is one of the most environmentally minded in the world, with protected forests, clean beaches, and strong wildlife laws. This makes it one of the best places in the world for spotting wildlife in its natural environment. Sloths laze about, toucans fly in colorful flocks from forest to forest, and howler monkeys swing through the trees. Meanwhile, at the coast, sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches, humpback whales breach the surface of the water, and saltwater crocodiles divide their time between the rivers and the sea. There is something remarkable to see at every turn.

costa rica travel toucan

National Parks

As mentioned, the Costa Rican authorities have protected much of their natural environment, and this is done mainly in the form of the creation of protected national parks. The cloud forest of Monteverde is home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, a staggering amount when noting its tiny size. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a wonderful place to visit, protecting this life for future generations. 

Coffee

It’s fair to say that the modern world thrives on coffee, most of us can’t function in the morning without our first cup. You may not know then that Costa Rica produces some of the best coffee in the world – in fact, it is one of the country’s main exports and some estimates suggest that the average Costa Rican drinks six cups per day! If on vacation in Costa Rica, you’ll want to take a visit to one of the country’s coffee plantations and make sure to grab a bag of Costa Rica’s finest to bring home with you.

costa rica rainforest

If you care about the environment and love getting out and about with nature, then you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better vacation destination in the world than Costa Rica. The amazing wildlife, stunning scenery, and towering volcanoes combine to make it one of the most appealing travel destinations in the world. There are plenty of great hotels and resorts in the country, but for something extra special, and with an added dose of privacy, why not rent a private villa in Guanacaste province? Prices start at just $189 per person per night, and this price is all-inclusive, meaning you get every amenity you would expect from a luxury hotel, without having to share the pool with strangers! Villa de la Luna also overlooks the Pacific Ocean, giving you the most incredible morning view when savoring your first cup of Costa Rican coffee.

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Why Costa Rica is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

Why Costa Rica is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

Why Costa Rica is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

While it can sometimes seem stressful, traveling to Costa Rica allows families of all ages the chance to step out of their comfort zone and experience things they never have before. When choosing to vacation in Costa Rica, children will be exposed to a new culture and experience sights they’ve never seen before, and adults will have the opportunity to truly appreciate what’s around them by relaxing and being in the moment.

Traveling the world gives families the chance to connect in ways that aren’t possible at home.

Family Bonding

When on vacation, families fully dedicate all of their time to each other, creating a bonding experience like no other. Being away from the demands of the day-to-day, fast-paced life grants an opportunity for the family to spend time doing nothing but relaxing and enjoying each other’s company.

Whether deciding to enjoy a day at the Villa or out exploring Costa Rica on an excursion, any and every day of your trip provides an opportunity to make life-long memories both you, your kids and grandkids will treasure. Even the simplest experiences, such as sitting around the dinner table and sharing a meal together, can become cherished moments. Vacations are the time when parents can bond with their children and siblings can also spend quality time together.

New Cultures and Experiences

Traveling to Costa Rica will give you a unique chance to experience the people, food, and culture. Children tend to absorb knowledge more through experiential learning, like embracing new cultures and customs first hand, tasting new cuisines and being exposed to new languages. By choosing to travel to Costa Rica with younger children, it will not only broaden their sense of reality but will set them up for different experiences in the future.

World Appreciation

Taking a vacation is not just about taking pictures of beautiful sunsets and seeing different landmarks, it also encompasses an understanding of humanity and the world in general. Seeing the world will make travelers of all ages explore a new environment or meet interesting people who can offer a fresh perspective to life. Children are naturally more inquisitive than adults, so having them around makes the family as a whole see what they otherwise might not have noticed. And seeing children’s reactions to the world’s most extraordinary sights and scenery can remind an adult to feel that appreciation, too. Children also have a tendency to ask more questions, so by trying to provide an answer, the whole family can learn something new.

Life Enriching

One of the greatest benefits in traveling to Costa Rica is the way it enriches each person’s life. For a family, this can simply stem from enjoying a day spent relaxing at the Villa, having the time to spend with one another. Even short trips can encourage children to focus on accumulating memories and experiences, rather than possessions. Family adventures promote independence, self-confidence and interpersonal skills, and the more families travel together, the more their curiosity, sense of adventure, ideas grow.

Traveling to Costa Rica with family holds many benefits that will create life-long memories. From the moment you get to Costa Rica to long after arriving home, a vacation can be one of the most rewarding adventures a family can have together.

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All-inclusive Dining at Villa de la Luna

All-inclusive Dining at Villa de la Luna

One of the best parts of traveling to another country is experiencing the flavors that belong to that country and culture. As part of the all-inclusive amenities, you’ll get to experience some of the best Latin cuisine prepared daily by our on-site chef. Meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as snacks and desserts. To see some of our favorites, click the menu below!


dining menu

What to Pack When Traveling to Costa Rica

What to Pack When Traveling to Costa Rica

We have been receiving many questions lately on what exactly you will need to pack when visiting Villa de la Luna in Costa Rica, so we decided to put together a very quick, and easy “Costa Rica Checklist” for you!

What you will need does sometimes depend on the time of the year you choose to join us in paradise. Costa Rica has “rainy seasons” that marvel the rainy season experienced in Florida, United Stated: Sunshine almost all day, shower mid-day, followed by a clear and beautiful night afterwards. This predictability lets our guests pack as they would any other time of year, but it is recommended to bring a rain jacket or rain boots!

Here is a general understanding of what you will need to prepare for your trip to Costa Rica! If you have any additional questions about what you will need and what we recommend to leave home, please contact us here or on FacebookTo print our Checklist, please just click on the photo!

 

What Makes Costa Rica So Unique

What Makes Costa Rica So Unique

Taking a trip to a foreign country offers a world of unknown and differences from where you currently reside. Costa Rica is especially one of the most fascinating countries to visit for the unique experience you’ll receive.

Costa Rica is not over the top with sky-rise buildings and huge shopping malls. Instead, Costa Rica is full of wildlife, a rich and thriving Rainforest, and cities that will allow you to forget your big-world worries and get more in touch with people and nature.

Wondering what some of the differences of Costa Rica may be? Here are a few things that set Costa Rica apart from many other countries!

 

Costa Rica Runs on Renewable Energy

Throughout 2016, Costa Rica has developed a running streak where the entire country runs strictly on renewable energy. This has been in the works since 2014 but was not until recently that other sources of energy have been derived. This allows us to use our resources for energy without harming our beautiful and delicate ecosystem.

renewable energy costa rica

Tropical Rainforests

Costa Rica is made up of 51% tropical rainforests. Besides providing tons of exciting tours and activities for tourists, rainforests benefit the country and the world in many ways. By absorbing carbon dioxide, rainforests help to reduce the effects of worldwide climate change. In addition to the important role rainforests play in Earth’s climate, they also are an important home to about half of the species of plants and wildlife on the planet. Because who doesn’t love reducing carbon dioxide and providing a home for plants and wildlife?

arenal national park

Perfect Weather All Year

The average temperature year-round in Costa Rica is 76 °F. Verano, or summer, is known as the “dry season” and lasts from December to the beginning of April. There is usually little to no rain during the dry season, allowing optimal activities for everyone. Invierno, or the rainy season, is also known as the “green season.” The rainy season lasts from April until the middle of December and brings a predictable rain schedule that can be comparable to that of Florida in the United States. Those traveling to Costa Rica are suggested to plan their trips to be active in the mornings and evenings, while resting and relaxing in the afternoon. The rainy season feeds the Rainforest and brings about a new color and wildlife experience that is unlike any other. The rich ecosystem is thriving and in its prime during this time of year.

costa rica eco

 

Costa Rica is a one-of-a-kind country and offers much more than the mind could ever imagine. Visit Costa Rica and see just how incredible this beautiful country is!

 

 

Pura Vida!

Why Costa Rica Is The Perfect Spring Break Destination

Why Costa Rica Is The Perfect Spring Break Destination

There is no break more desirable than Spring Break! What better way to finally escape the lingering winter months than by escaping to a tropical paradise? Whether a girl’s (or guy’s) week away from college or a family trip that the kids will never forget, there is something in Costa Rica for everyone to enjoy! Villa de la Luna is a great place to stay if you want to be pampered, but also want to enjoy some quiet time.

See what’s waiting for you in Costa Rica for Spring Break!

  • There’s nothing better than a day spent by the pool, with only a quick 5-minute walk to the beach

    pool view

  • Everyone will have their own space to unwind… with a view!

corner room with a view

  • There are excursions and activities for everyone to enjoy

caves and beer

  • All-inclusive amenities will save money on food and beverages

cold drink

  • Costa Rica is experiencing it’s “dry” season, so weather will be gorgeous and ecosystem thriving

beach

Convinced that Costa Rica would be the perfect getaway for Spring Break? Check our availability and click here to request dates!

Costa Rica: The Perfect Place to Unplug and Unwind

Costa Rica: The Perfect Place to Unplug and Unwind

Some of the biggest difficulties in trying to get the family together is trying to get everyone to live in the moment and enjoy each other’s company. Whether it’s unplugging from our devices or simply being able to “be in the now,” all families struggle with this from time to time. We’re happy to tell you that taking a family trip to Costa Rica may be just what you need to unplug and unwind!

 

After traveling the few hour plane ride to Costa Rica, many will be anxious to get back to their cell phones and update any and all social media platforms with #InCostaRica or #WeMadeIt followed by pictures of them waiting to exit the plane. What happens after this however, is what makes Costa Rica a wonderful place to leave our devices behind and escape reality.

– The Beautiful Views

When you get off the plane at Liberia Airport, you will begin to see all of the beauties that are native to Costa Rica. Firstly, the people and cultural differences will heighten curiosity and peak your interests. Second comes the gorgeous agriculture and wildlife that will greet you as you take your first few steps into Costa Rica.

liberia airport

– Limited Cell Phone Service

It is true that your cell phone service will not be as strong as it is where you came from, but that’s a good thing! Some places across Guanacaste will offer Wifi as you go off on excursions, and of course, we offer complimentary wifi in our All-inclusive packages.

no cell phone service

– Everything Is New

New food, new architecture, new faces, new everything! Costa Rica is known to attract people with the beautiful nature and beaches, but like the true way to anyone’s heart, the food will make you never want to leave. Suddenly vacations in the past become one familiar blur and are replaced with constantly changing “firsts” as you have your first true Costa Rican meal or run into your first monkey.

sloth

 

– Living In Paradise

You will be too consumed with the daily thrills of canopy tours or surfing that you won’t be thinking about your mobile devices or social media updates. Instead, you’ll see who can make the biggest splash into the infinity pool that overlooks the Pacific Ocean or who can eat the most Tostones.

perfection

 

If you’re having difficulty getting your whole family to unplug and live in the now, Costa Rica may be the perfect family vacation to take! See some of the awesome things families enjoy doing together while staying at our Villa, here!

 

 

Pura Vida!

Giving Thanks at Villa de la Luna

Giving Thanks at Villa de la Luna

One of the best things about family traditions is starting new ones. With new doors opening and old ones closing, it’s not uncommon for old traditions to fade into the distance. If you’re having a hard time getting the family together for Thanksgiving, it may be time to think of something new. What better way to get the entire family together than with a trip to Costa Rica at an All-inclusive Beach Villa. Give Thanks with Villa de la Luna this year!

 

Sure, there are some staples that a majority of household’s have as their Thanksgiving tradition… The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Football, grandpa sleeping on the couch, etc. But who’s to say that you can’t have those very same traditions in a tropical paradise! With family moving to different states to pursue their dreams, getting everyone together for dinner can be nearly impossible.

 

Trade in your sweaters and turkey basters for your swimsuit and sunglasses! Costa Rica experiences the end of its “rainy season” in November, which brings short daily showers that leave the ecosystem thriving and native wildlife active. To make this new experience truly memorable, our 5-star Chef has planned a menu that is home to Latin culture and has some of the staples during any Costa Rican and Latin holiday or special event.

 

Start your newest family tradition by giving thanks to Costa Rica this year! See our availability calendar and reservation request form here!

 

Pura Vida!

 

Thanksgiving menu