Sloths, monkeys and volcano bathing

The Arenal volcano region and the town of La Fortuna is a popular destination. During my five days here I scheduled some guided activities:

* A guided sloth territory hike tour on a private property in the Arenal area, where a family keeps a sloth sanctuary in a part of the rainforest surrounded by La Havana river. Our small group of 3 Germans, 2 Americans, and 1 Italian walked about a mile in the rain forest spotting sloths, birds, and monkeys, and of course lush vegetation, blosoms and fruits all around.

* Guided River rafting private excursion, drifting through the rain forest near farmlands, also seeing sloths, monkeys, porcupines, iguanas, birds as we gently floated down the river. At the end, the monkeys were having a party in the trees surrounding a farmhouse cafe, providing a dramatic and fun conclusion to the 90 minute tour.

* Full day pass to the Tabacon hot springs to relax and bathe in the thermal waters naturally heated from the Arenal volcano, where there were dozens of pools and waterfalls to enjoy. Since it was also raining most of the day, it was fun to feel the cold rain while soaking in 100 degrees water. I was looking forward to this experience more than anything and give it a 10.

* And since I was staying at a nice resort, I also opted for a free early morning yoga class and a soothing reflexology foot massage. Both took place in open air structures at the edge of the rain forest, a sensational environment for relaxation.

What I didn't do: this area is also popular for adrenaline style nature activities like zip lining, hanging bridges, extreme hiking, climbing, and white water rafting. I opted for a more peaceful pace. 😊

Here's to the healing powers of mother nature!

Pura Vida! 🦜🐒✨🌴🐦Read more