Costa Rica: Where Nature, Friendship, and Tourism Come Together

Costa Rica: Where Nature, Friendship, and Tourism Come Together

By Gunther Goldberg – TKP CEO

Every year there are destinations that surprise us and others that inspire us to return. Costa Rica unquestionably belongs to the latter category.

My recent visit to the country took place following my participation in EXPOTUR 2026, Costa Rica’s most important and longest-running tourism trade show, held in San José. For decades, this event has served as one of Central America’s leading tourism marketplaces, bringing together international buyers, tour operators, travel advisors, hotels, and tourism suppliers interested in showcasing the country’s extraordinary tourism offerings.

After completing our business meetings and appointments at the show, I had the privilege of joining a post-tour alongside an outstanding group of travel advisors and tourism professionals from various international markets. Familiarization trips such as these are among the most valuable tools in our industry, allowing us to personally experience the products and services that we later recommend to our clients.

However, after more than three decades of traveling the world, visiting nearly one hundred countries, and participating in countless trade shows, conventions, and fam trips, I have learned that destinations are not remembered solely for their landscapes or tourist attractions. The most meaningful memories are created through experiences, the people we meet along the way, and the stories we share during our journeys.

Costa Rica has always held a special place in my heart. It is a country I have visited several times, yet it never ceases to amaze me. Its unique combination of nature, adventure, sustainability, hospitality, and world-class tourism services makes it one of the most complete and admired destinations in Latin America.

Our journey was expertly organized and operated by Top Tours and Expediciones Tropicales, two companies that represent the very best of Costa Rica’s inbound tourism industry. Thanks to their impeccable coordination, professionalism, and attention to detail, we were able to explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations with the confidence that every aspect of our trip had been carefully planned.

And here I would like to pause to recognize something that is often overlooked: there is no great tour without a great guide and an excellent driver.

Our guide, José, was far more than someone simply explaining the places we visited. With passion, professionalism, and a profound knowledge of the country, he succeeded in sharing the true essence of Costa Rica with us at every stop. His ability to interpret nature, explain local history, and tell engaging stories transformed each excursion into an educational and memorable experience.

Likewise, our driver David was responsible for safely guiding us through mountain roads, volcanoes, rainforests, and Pacific coast landscapes. Those of us who travel frequently understand that safety is one of the most important components of any tourism program, and David demonstrated an exemplary combination of professionalism, experience, and kindness throughout the entire journey.

It would also be impossible not to recognize the outstanding work of Paulina and Silvia, who accompanied and assisted us throughout the tour, ensuring that every detail flowed seamlessly according to the itinerary. Their dedication, professionalism, and constant willingness to help made the experience even more enjoyable for all participants. Behind every successful trip, there are individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly, and they were undoubtedly an essential part of this memorable experience.

Our adventure began with a visit to Hacienda Doka Coffee Estate, where we discovered the fascinating process behind one of Costa Rica’s most iconic products: coffee. There, we enjoyed a traditional Costa Rican breakfast before touring the plantation and learning about every stage that transforms a coffee bean into one of the world’s most beloved beverages.

We then continued to the impressive Poás Volcano, one of the country’s most visited natural attractions and a true symbol of Costa Rica’s geological richness. Standing before its massive crater, surrounded by lush mountain vegetation, was a powerful reminder of the natural forces that have shaped this remarkable land over thousands of years.

The day continued at the spectacular La Paz Waterfall Gardens, one of Costa Rica’s premier ecological attractions. We walked through tropical forest trails, observed butterflies, hummingbirds, monkeys, amphibians, and wild cats, while admiring some of the country’s most breathtaking waterfalls. It was a vivid reminder of why this small nation is home to nearly five percent of the world’s biodiversity..

From there, we traveled to the Arenal region, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated tourism destinations. Our accommodations at Hotel Arenal Manoa offered spectacular views of the majestic Arenal Volcano, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and natural beauty.

The following day, we visited Mundo Aventura, where we experienced some of the outdoor activities that have helped position Costa Rica as one of the world’s leading adventure tourism destinations. Later, we relaxed in the famous Tabacón Hot Springs, naturally heated by the geothermal activity of the Arenal Volcano. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, these thermal waters provide an unparalleled wellness experience that perfectly combines luxury and nature.

Our journey then continued toward the Central Pacific region, including a stop at Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park, another excellent example of Costa Rica’s impressive adventure tourism offerings. We later visited Santa Lucía Jungle Hacienda, Autograph Collection, a remarkable property that seamlessly blends luxury, design, and nature.

That evening, we stayed at the renowned Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort, one of the most complete resort properties on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. Its marina, golf course, world-class facilities, and exceptional location make it an ideal choice for leisure travelers, incentive groups, and corporate events alike.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the trip was our visit to Manuel Antonio National Park. Despite having visited numerous national parks around the world, Manuel Antonio continues to impress me with its extraordinary combination of pristine beaches, tropical rainforest, and abundant wildlife.

During our walk through the park, we observed monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The combination of lush vegetation, scenic trails, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters makes Manuel Antonio one of Costa Rica’s greatest natural treasures.

We also conducted a site inspection of Hotel Parador Resort & Spa, one of the area’s most exclusive properties. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the hotel perfectly embodies Costa Rica’s philosophy of harmoniously integrating luxury with nature.

Beyond the hotels, excursions, and landscapes, this journey reaffirmed something I have always believed about Costa Rica. The country’s greatest asset is not merely its volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, or wildlife. Its greatest strength is its people. The famous phrase “Pura Vida” is not a marketing slogan; it is a way of life reflected in every smile, every greeting, and every interaction visitors experience.

I also leave with the satisfaction of having shared this experience with fellow travel professionals from different countries. Familiarization trips teach us a great deal about destinations, but they also remind us of the friendships that are formed along the way. Many of the people I now consider close friends were first met during journeys just like this one.

At the conclusion of this tour, I was reminded once again of something I have believed for many years: Costa Rica is far more than a country—it is an experience that engages all five senses. Its extraordinary natural beauty, volcanoes, tropical forests, beaches, and national parks are only part of what captivates visitors. Its true richness lies in its people, their warmth, authenticity, traditions, and a gastronomy that delights with fresh, flavorful, and genuine ingredients.

Every shared meal, every conversation, every landscape, and every encounter with nature reminded us why Costa Rica remains one of the most admired destinations in the Americas. Here, sustainability is not a trend—it is a way of life. Hospitality is not a tourism strategy—it is part of the national identity.

After so many years of traveling the world and visiting extraordinary destinations across multiple continents, I continue to find something in Costa Rica that is difficult to describe in words. There is a special energy that connects visitors with nature, with other people, and with themselves.

Many people say that Costa Rica is “Pura Vida.” After this experience, I would venture to say it is much more than that.

Costa Rica is life at its fullest expression. It is proof that a balance between nature, well-being, sustainability, and happiness is possible.

Costa Rica is not simply “Pura Vida”; it is life itself, perfectly justified in every sense of the phrase.

And perhaps that is why, no matter how many countries I visit or continents I explore, I always find a reason to return. Because Costa Rica is not a destination you visit only once.

Costa Rica is a destination you experience, embrace, and carry with you forever.

It is more than a country—it is an experience. Its natural beauty, welcoming people, and delicious gastronomy transform every visit into something unforgettable. Costa Rica is not just “Pura Vida”; it is life itself, celebrated and lived to its fullest. / gg