A jungle adventure doesn’t have to mean “roughing it.” And a luxury vacation can still be friendly to the environment.
Those two truisms sum up Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo. Tucked off the beaten path on the north end of the Costa Rican Pacific coast, Peninsula Papagayo hosts a priceless ecosystem—one of the last dry tropical forests on the planet.
With terrain plucked out of a pirate fantasy novel, the geography of this 1,400-acre private landmass, formed by volcanic activity, boasts 15 miles of winding coastline, 31 separate white-sand beaches, four UNESCO World Heritage sites, and miles of dazzling jungle trails to explore.
Even better for lovers of both high-end accommodation and green living, Peninsula Papagayo leads the way in Costa Rica’s pursuit of no national carbon footprint with a unique commitment to sustainable luxury.
Make the trip to this low-key gem of Costa Rican tourism and discovery. Here are a few options that we can build into your vacation tour package.
Nature and Wildlife of Papagayo
Despite the innovative luxury amenities for visitors and a smattering of local villages, the Costa Rican government has ordered that 70% of the peninsula’s landmass remains undeveloped.
You can’t deny the wisdom of that mandate as you delve with wonder into three amazing national parks, including:
Santa Rosa National Park
Located 30 minutes from the Guanacaste airport, Santa Rosa is a living museum to a critical battle in Costa Rica’s 19th-century war with Nicaragua. The beach is also a nesting site for the Ridley Turtle. The turtles nest in July-August, and hatch in September-October. Both events are unforgettable if you time your trip right.
Guanacaste National Park
A key corridor for 150 mammal species, 300 bird species, 100 reptiles and amphibians, and over 10,000 insects, the natural diversity of Guanacaste National Park makes it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Explore further with a boat trip up Tempisque river or discover the trail to the Orosi Volcano, lined with pre-Columbian petroglyphs.
Rincón de La Vieja National Park
The unearthly geography of Rincón de La Vieja is a legacy of the peninsula’s volcanic heritage, punctuated by the looming cone of Rincón de La Vieja Volcano. Hikes and horseback rides through the park reveal stunning waterfalls, lava formations, and gorgeous natural hot springs.
Activities in Peninsula Papagayo
The natural beauty of Costa Rica is on full display at Peninsula Papagayo. Consider timing your visit to the May-to-November “green season,” not just to witness the nesting and hatching of the Ridley Turtles, but to see the terrain explode with color and diversity, nourished by scattered showers. Don’t worry, the afternoon showers won’t break up your sunbathing—in fact, they’re a great way to beat the heat.
Other activities to dig into when in the Papagayo Peninsula include:
- Snorkeling and SCUBA diving
- Deep-sea fishing
- Surfing and windsurfing
- Ocean kayaking and paddle boarding
- Sailing and Catamaran
- Whitewater rafting
- Zipline canopy tours
- Horseback riding
- Village visits
Popular day trips to beautiful locations such as: Arenal Volcano, Rio Celeste or Palo Verde National Park can all be arranged with your Central America Journeys travel advisor.
Golf is also a big draw on Peninsula Papagayo. Hit the links in style for 18 holes at Ocean Course, Vista Links, Ridge, or the Four Seasons.
One of a Kind Resorts
After a priceless day of jungle adventure, what could be better than returning to the comfort and amenities of a unique luxury resort? Upgrade your Costa Rican journey at some of the chicest accommodations in the country, including:
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort
A luxury subsidiary of Hyatt, Andaz makes the most of its spectacular beachfront location. Distinctive curved-roof cottages offer balconies with either ocean or jungle views. Refresh your senses in the plunge pool, sample local seafood at the open-air restaurant, and live music at the bar while the rugrats run wild at the 24/7 kid’s club.
Four Seasons Costa Rica
Overlooking Culebra Bay and the Gulf of Papagayo from its high vantage point, the Four Seasons Costa Rica pampers guests with a luxury spa, 18-hole golf course, five fine dining restaurants, and villas with private infinity pools.
Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica
Planet Hollywood offers a first-class all-inclusive resort off Manzanillo Beach on the coast of Culebra Bay. Upgrade to a suite with bay views and a private jacuzzi, dine in one of six restaurants (including a Japanese steakhouse), or sip a cocktail at the poolside bar.
El Mangrove on Peninsula Papagayo
This upscale boutique hotel offers gulf views, private plunge pools, and beach access from select premium suites. Multiple dining options include light dining at a beachside shack and an open-air spa to spoil you.
Ready to Discover
Are you ready to discover what sets the Peninsula Papagayo a World apart? Countless adventures are waiting for you to explore throughout the region. Let us help you craft an itinerary that encompasses your interests, passions, and quenches your wanderlust. Tell us what most intrigues you or let us make a recommendation and design an unforgettable travel experience. We are here to take the stress out of travel planning and ensure that your time abroad is spent fully enjoying your vacation, worry-free.
If your wanderlust is calling, why not start by filling in our travel enquiry form or give us a call at (877) 509-6033. We take the stress out of planning and deliver highly personalized travel packages and concierge service for individuals, families, and groups.
We are proud members of Sustainable Travel International, and ALTOUR/Travel Square One LLC.
With an adventurous spirit,
Your friends at Central America Journeys
