Costa Rica
A Costa Rica Adventure with Exodus Adventure Travels
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
As such a popular destination and favorite of many adventure travelers, I wanted to find out what all the fuss was about in Costa Rica. Having traveled to 82 countries, this tropical destination has always intrigued me and been on my bucket list for decades. I would finally satisfy my curiosity and take a one-week trip to uncover the land between two oceans.
I have always said that when you discover a far-off destination, do it right the first time. The tour with Exodus Adventure Travels on their Natural Highlights of Costa Rica itinerary would prove to be exactly the right way to experience this remarkable country.
This would be my second time out with Exodus, the first coming in 2023 when I went on a “trip of a lifetime” to northern Africa on their Highlights of Morocco – In Comfort adventure. That journey became one of my all-time favorites, not only because of the exotic treasures of Morocco, but because of how professionally Exodus handled every aspect of the experience. I was excited to once again enjoy their exceptional service, carefully selected hotels, knowledgeable guides, experienced drivers, comfortable transportation and, perhaps most importantly, the reassuring feeling that everything would be taken care of from the moment I arrived until I boarded my flight home.
That confidence is something every traveler values. There are enough uncertainties when visiting another country—different languages, customs, transportation systems and weather. Exodus removes those concerns, allowing guests to simply enjoy the destination. From detailed pre-departure information to seamless transfers and organized excursions, everything works together so travelers can focus on creating memories instead of solving problems.
Just like my trip to Morocco where there were only a handful of guests, we would be just nine travelers in Costa Rica. Small groups make an enormous difference. We boarded buses quickly, checked into hotels effortlessly and never felt like we were part of a large tour. More importantly, it gave us the opportunity to get to know one another, share stories over dinner and quickly develop friendships that enhanced the entire experience.
Accommodations
Exodus provided us with strictly the best possible accommodations in ideal locations close to the attractions we would visit. This trip was set up perfectly, and all our rooms were clean and convenient with great staff and services.
One of the things I particularly appreciate about Exodus is that they don’t simply choose hotels because they are comfortable; they choose properties that complement the destination. Every overnight stay became part of the adventure rather than simply a place to sleep. Whether overlooking tropical landscapes or situated near national parks, each hotel added another dimension to our Costa Rican experience.
My favorite was the individual cabins found at the Evergreen Lodge in Tortuguero National Park. Basically, we were nestled right into the tropical forest with nature all around us. The main river was a stone’s throw away, the facilities blended beautifully with the environment and the grounds were meticulously maintained. Instead of traditional windows, our cabins featured screened walls on three sides that allowed fresh tropical air to circulate while keeping insects outside. Falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest and waking to the songs of exotic birds became unforgettable experiences.
To add to this authentic adventure, there were no roads leading to the lodge. The only access was by specially designed motorized boats navigating the winding waterways. Simply arriving there felt like entering another world. This whole experience became one of the highlights of the journey and helped me understand why Costa Rica is regarded as one of the world’s leading eco-tourism destinations. The country’s commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident everywhere.
The Exodus Effect
From A to Z—from the moment I first visited the Exodus website until I safely returned home—I have nothing but praise for this outstanding adventure travel company. Their website is exceptionally easy to navigate, allowing travelers to browse hundreds of exciting itineraries around the world. Once the trip is booked, their professional staff provide detailed travel information, practical advice, packing suggestions and regular updates, making preparation both simple and enjoyable.
What impressed me once again was the consistency. This was my second Exodus journey on two completely different continents, yet the quality never changed. The same attention to detail, organization and customer service was evident throughout. That consistency is not easy to achieve and speaks volumes about the company’s more than fifty years of experience in adventure travel.
Exodus has built an international reputation by creating journeys that immerse travelers in destinations rather than simply introducing them to famous landmarks. Their itineraries encourage guests to experience local culture, wildlife, cuisine and traditions while maintaining a pace that is active without being exhausting. There is an excellent balance between organized sightseeing and personal free time, allowing travelers to discover places at their own pace.
Responsible tourism is another reason Exodus has earned such a loyal following. Throughout Costa Rica we stayed at locally operated lodges, supported local businesses and visited protected natural areas where conservation is taken seriously. Tourism benefits the communities while encouraging the preservation of the country’s incredible biodiversity. As travelers, it was rewarding to know that our visit was helping sustain the very places we had come to admire.
Like my previous tour to Morocco, Exodus hires some of the best guides I have ever encountered. Friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and genuine experts in their field, they become much more than tour leaders—they become ambassadors for their country.
Guillermo, our guide in Costa Rica, was an absolute jewel. Always smiling and eager to help, no matter the time of day, he made every excursion enjoyable. A trained biologist, he possessed an extraordinary understanding of Costa Rica’s flora and fauna. What amazed me most was his ability to spot wildlife that the rest of us would have walked right past. A tiny tree frog hidden among leaves, a sleeping sloth high in the canopy or an owl perfectly camouflaged against tree bark—all became visible through Guillermo’s experienced eyes.
On both Exodus adventures, the drivers were equally impressive. Their professionalism, safe driving and familiarity with local roads allowed us to relax completely while traveling between destinations. Comfortable transportation may not seem important until you spend several hours on the road, and Exodus clearly understands that every part of the journey contributes to the overall experience.
Another pleasant surprise was the fellow travelers. Exodus seems to attract people who are curious, respectful, well-traveled and genuinely interested in learning about the world. Conversations over breakfast or dinner were as enjoyable as many of the excursions themselves. It comes as no surprise that many guests are repeat Exodus travelers who return year after year because they know exactly what level of quality to expect.
Excursions Galore
The best way to learn about a destination is to get out and embrace it. Exodus’ Natural Highlights of Costa Rica was exceptionally well researched, thoughtfully planned and flawlessly executed. Every day became another exciting adventure.
Costa Rica may occupy only a tiny portion of the Earth’s landmass, yet it contains an astonishing percentage of the planet’s biodiversity. Every excursion demonstrated why conservation has become one of the country’s greatest achievements. Rather than simply driving past spectacular scenery, we walked through it, floated along rivers, crossed hanging bridges high above the forest canopy and explored environments that felt almost prehistoric.
With Guillermo leading the way, we encountered an incredible variety of wildlife. Three different species of monkeys entertained us with their acrobatics while sloths rested peacefully overhead. Brightly colored toucans, parrots and countless other tropical birds filled the forests with color and sound. Every trail seemed to reveal another fascinating insect, butterfly, reptile or amphibian. It became impossible not to appreciate the delicate balance of this extraordinary ecosystem.
Personally, I had several must-see experiences on my wish list, and the Exodus itinerary delivered every one of them. I wanted to experience the Costa Rican rainforest, admire the majestic Arenal Volcano, visit both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, walk through the mystical Cloud Forest and cross Monteverde’s famous suspension bridges high above the jungle floor. Every destination exceeded my expectations.
As an added bonus, Guillermo introduced us to Costa Rica’s agricultural side with a fascinating visit to a banana plantation, where we learned everything from cultivation and harvesting to packaging and worldwide export. It was another reminder that Exodus always looks beyond the obvious tourist attractions.
Despite our busy itinerary, there was never a sense of being rushed. We enjoyed time to relax, browse local shops, enjoy excellent Costa Rican coffee, sample delicious regional cuisine and simply absorb the atmosphere. That balance between activity and relaxation is something Exodus has clearly perfected.
Rain, Rain Go Away
Unlike my home in Canada with its four distinct seasons, tropical Costa Rica experiences only two—the dry season and the rainy season. Visiting during the wetter months initially concerned me, but I quickly realized there was little reason to worry. While the rain could be dramatic, it often arrived in powerful bursts before giving way to sunshine. As we traveled westward across the mountains, blue skies and warm sunshine became increasingly common.
The rainfall is, after all, what creates Costa Rica’s lush forests, spectacular waterfalls and astonishing biodiversity. Watching mist rise through the rainforest after a tropical shower became one of the most beautiful sights of the trip.
“Pura Vida” is the slogan used to promote Costa Rica. Literally translated as “pure life,” it represents far more than two simple words. It reflects the country’s relaxed outlook, appreciation of nature and genuine warmth toward visitors. Before long I found myself hearing—and saying—”Pura Vida” countless times each day.
Having traveled extensively through the tropics on three continents, including neighboring Panama and the Amazon, I can confidently say Costa Rica offers something uniquely special. It is welcoming, peaceful, exceptionally clean and deeply committed to protecting its remarkable natural environment.
This second adventure with Exodus Adventure Travels confirmed exactly why the company has earned such an outstanding international reputation. The professionalism of the entire Exodus team, the expertise of Guillermo, the friendships formed within our small group and the seamless organization from beginning to end combined to create another unforgettable journey.
Costa Rica had been on my bucket list for decades, and thanks to Exodus Adventure Travels, it surpassed every expectation. Some trips simply take you somewhere new. Others stay with you forever. This was undoubtedly one of those journeys.
