Girl Guides: Costa Rica

Explore a national park in northern Costa Rica known for one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Hike trails through tropical highland and lowland wet forests, and see Lake Arenal, the country’s largest lake and a major source of Costa Rica’s renewable energy.

Glide along the still waters reflecting the perfect cone of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rolling hills. Lake Arenal, the country's largest, is also among its most scenic, and the area has become popular area to kayak, windsurf, sail, fish, and hike. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Hike through lush rainforest alongside La Fortuna Waterfall, where water cascades 240 feet into a tranquil pool. End the experience with a refreshing swim at the base of the falls.

Because of its humidity and latitude, the entire city of Monteverde can disappear in a second under a massive cloud cover. Founded by Quakers in 1951, the city boasts the best in Costa Rican creatures. Observe a proud display of howler monkeys, revered quetzals and native frogs in the dense cover of the cloud forest.

Step into the Monteverde Cloud Forest and be transported to the lush world of the Costa Rican rainforest. The towering trees, abundant shrubs and vibrant flowers create a luscious oasis for a huge array of animals, including jaguars, toucans and monkeys.

Harness in and soar above the jungle canopy on a thrilling zip line tour that takes you through the Costa Rican rainforest. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.

Create authentic local foods and sit down to savor your delicious creations.

Climb into the clouds for unforgettable wildlife encounters at the Santa Elena Reserve. Shrouded in mist, this lush cloud forest is home to spider monkeys and offers sweeping views across the landscape, stretching all the way to Arenal Volcano on a clear day.

In 1987, a nine-year-old Swedish student asked what he could do to save the rainforests, and Children’s Eternal Cloud Forest was born. The Monteverde Conservation League oversees the planting of deforested land and virgin rainforest in the Children’s Forest and throughout the area, and now owns more than 22,000 hectares. Contribute your green thumb efforts to their conservation work.

Volunteer at Santuario de Lapas, a sanctuary for local wildlife. Groups will participate in a variety of activities to assist staff with animal care before they are released into their natural habitat.

Take in the fresh sea air, amazing views and sounds of the sea during this peaceful and relaxing slow-flow yoga class. This class is suitable for all levels. Please bring comfortable clothes you can move in.

Combining white sandy beaches with lush tropical forest, Manuel Antonio is the perfect place to see a variety of Costa Rican wildlife, from white-faced monkeys and sleepy-faced sloths, to green turtles and orange-and-black-shelled land crabs.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Manuel Antonio for a mesmerizing snorkeling adventure among vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life.

Enjoy getting your adrenaline pumping again on your tour through a crocodile safari. There are two native species of crocodiles in Costa Rica: the American crocodile and the Spectacled Caiman. American crocodiles can grow up to 20 feet in length and weigh over 1,000 pounds. Caimans are much smaller, around 8 feet in length, and weigh less than 100 pounds.

On the way to San José, travel to Sarchí, a highly artistic city known for its painted designs and brilliantly coloured wheels of local ox carts.

Spend some time learning how to paint a national symbol of Costa Rica, the wheel of an Ox Cart. While we are painting there will be contests, games and little dances. All fees and materials for this opportunity are included.

Costa Rica’s culture draws on African, Caribbean, and Spanish roots to create a unique and lively blend. Sit back and surround yourself with this colourful culture during an evening of fine food and fiesta. Brightly costumed locals serve up a typical Costa Rican meal of beans, rice, white cheese, fruit, and a main dish of fish, chicken, or beef, and a performance of traditional music follows.