A  Costa Rica holiday is all about getting back to nature, soaking up the magic of the natural world and being stopped in your tracks by spectacular wildlife around every corner. Everywhere you go in Costa Rica is going to be special. But we like to work a little harder to get you off the beaten track. We believe in the importance of visiting the lesser-known places in the countries we love. Both to share the support of tourism and to give you a real insight into the authentic traditions and day-to-day life of the people. Finding these lesser-known highlights can be tricky. But that’s where we come in. Our Dawn has spent countless weeks in her beloved Costa Rica , befriending the locals and uncovering all of the very best secret Costa Rica spots. Below she shares 3 of her favourite places to go and why you’ll love them. If you want to chat through any Costa Rica holiday ideas, give us a call on 01242 253 073 and our Dawn will be ready to delight you with travel tales and inspire your next big adventure.   Dawn’s quick guide to secret Costa Rica San Gerardo de Dota An absolute paradise for bird watchers and hikers alike, the tranquil cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota feels a world away from Costa Rica’s busier tourist attractions. At first, the 85-kilometre drive southeast from San Jose to reach this sleepy hamlet seems fairly easygoing, with most of the journey following the famous Pan American Highway. However, as you reach the edge of the imposing Talamanca mountain range and the ominously named Cerro de la Muerte (‘hill of death’), brace yourself for the start of the dramatic 9km descent down twisting roads. You’ll quickly understand the meaning of a ‘Costa Rica massage’ here! When you make it to the bottom of the valley, you’ll emerge in San Gerardo itself, alongside the roaring Savegre River.     The average altitude of San Gerardo is around 2200 metres, and it’s the subtle differences in elevation throughout the region’s forests that make it the perfect spot for so many different ecosystems to thrive. What’s more, the population of different highland birds found here is staggering – with more than 170 species recorded in the wider area.  So, if you’re a keen twitcher, San Gerardo de Dota deserves a spot on your ‘ where to go in Costa Rica ‘ list.     By far, San Gerardo ’s most famous resident is the Resplendent Quetzal . This bird is so remarkably beautiful and was considered sacred by the ancient Aztec and Maya civilisations. So, during your time in San Gerardo de Dota keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of its shimmering turquoise wings, vivid scarlet chest, and fluffy emerald crest. San Gerardo is the only place in Costa Rica that boasts year-round sightings of the quetzal – so you’re in with a great chance here!   Where to stay in San Gerardo de Dota Book a stay at the Savegre Hotel in San Gerado . With its incredible location in a 400-hectare private reserve, this property attracts an incredible number of nesting quetzals. So, if ticking a glimpse of the quetzal is on your Costa Rica bucket list, there’s no better place to stay in Costa Rica. The lodge has a good network of cloud forest trails as well as huge areas in the gardens where you can simply sit and listen to the sounds of the birds. This is a bird paradise.   Explore more on this ‘Go Local in Costa Rica’ holiday idea   Turrialba It might be only 40 miles to the east of San Jose, but Turrialba feels so refreshingly far removed from the main tourist trail. Though best known as an agricultural region, Turrialba offers plenty of attractions that cater to a wide range of interests and will add a slice of variation to your Costa Rica holiday. If you’re a history buff, you simply must add Turrialba to your Costa Rica holiday – it’s the best base for visits to Costa Rica’s ancient archaeological site, Guayabo.     This mystery in Costa Rica’s Central Valley is thousands of years old. When you visit Guaybo , you’ll find the largest pre-Columbian ruins that have ever been discovered in Costa Rica. Archaeologists believe this was once a bustling city and a regional centre for politics, culture and religion, populated from 1000 BC to 1400 AD. For no known reason, the city was abandoned. To this day it’s unknown why! If you’re looking to enjoy the slower pace of life, head to the lush botanical gardens and the macadamia nut plantations for a spot of excellent bird watching.     It’s the perfect spot for those with a sense of adventure, too. Test your white-knuckle endurance with a whitewater rafting adventure , explore by mountain bike or on horseback, try your hand at canyoning , and catch a glimpse of the smoking Turrialba Volcano. This volcano is currently in the midst of a particularly active phase, making the attached national park too dangerous to visit, but its smoking peak is an impressive sight even from afar as you travel around the region.   Where to stay in Turrialba Pacuare is one of the most special places to stay in Turrialba . This secluded rainforest escape on the banks of the Río Pacuare has a highly unusual mode of arrival and departure: via white-water raft. Owned by a small family, the lodge works hard to always emphasise sustainability and works closely with local communities, including the indigenous Cabécar people. With an abundance of wildlife and countless amazing activities to enjoy, this is the place to stay in Turrialba.     Boca Tapada Boca Tapada is without doubt one of my favourite spots in all of Costa Rica. Hidden up in the Northern Lowlands between Ciudad Quesada and the Nicaraguan border, Boca Tapada is as remote as it is special. Every single client I’ve sent to this eco-tourism spot never fails to rave about its natural beauty and tranquillity.     The journey here is another bumpy one! As you leave the city of San Jose, you’ll gradually see the landscape change with many farms and true rural Costa Rican life popping up through the car windows. This is an area of real agricultural significance in Costa Rica. I n addition to cattle, the farms produce pineapples, bananas, heart of palm, plantains, and yucca. Boca Tapada is a hidden haven for birds and wildlife. It’s a primary nesting area for the endangered Great Green Macaw, so you’re in with a great chance of spotting one. In addition to the macaws, more than 400 other species of birds have been identified in Boca Tapada. But, it’s not just about the bird watching. There are so many species of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles living amongst the trees, with v arious frog and snake species that can be observed on guided night hikes along the trails.   The rainforests surrounding Boca Tapada are home to sloths, white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, coati, and even wild cat species such as jaguars. If you are planning to visit Boca Tapada on your Costa Rica holiday , be sure to plan for at least two nights. It takes a bit of time to reach the area as well as a reliable 4×4 vehicle! We don’t say it’s off-the-beaten-track for nothing! Where to stay in Boca Tapada You’ll struggle to find a more special place to stay in Costa Rica than the family-run Macquenque Eco Lodge . The lodge is located inside the Maquenque Eco Reserve, set in lush tropical rainforest alongside the majestic San Carlos River. The rainforest is home to more than 400 species of birds including great green and scarlet macaws, toucans and tanagers. Plus, the forests are alive with the sounds of wildlife! Stay in one of their treehouses for a truly unforgettable experience (and a tuneful wakeup!)   So, there you have it. Dawn’s favourite 3 secret Costa Rica spots for your holiday. Of course, this is just the tip of the rainforest! Dawn (and Lou, our other fantastic Costa Rica expert), are at the other end of the phone or email ready to design a Costa Rica holiday that’s perfect for you. Request a quick quote below or give us a call on 01242 253 073 to chat things through today.    

Dawn, one of our fabulous Latin America specialists here at HA, is just home from her latest adventure around the country. And to say she is buzzing with tales of her Andean adventures is an understatement. Read on for a few of her travel tales…      I went on an unforgettable journey back to my beloved Peru! It’s a country that never ceases to amaze me with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people. I think I did Peru in a completely different way than I’ve ever done Peru before. I got into the bones of the country this time and took the path less followed, less travelled. It wasn’t about doing things the way they’re normally done. This time, it was about connecting with the local people, local tribes, and finding the Inca ruins that weren’t as famous. But of course, not forgetting those famous ones too! Because, wow, Machu Picchu is truly breathtaking. From Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, to the Amazon and Lake Titicaca, read on for all of the highlights of my 3-weeks in Peru.     Lima My adventure began in the vibrant capital city of Lima. From the moment I landed, the city’s dynamic atmosphere charmed me. I wandered around the artsy district of Barranco, explored the fancy Miraflores (of course sampling some of its fantastic gourmet restaurants) and took in the sunset with a walk along the Malecon. I stayed at a wonderful, small boutique property, Fausto. The staff there were just beyond wonderful.  The Manager asked me if I’d like to visit the local market on my first morning – so I jumped at the chance!  We went for a wander and ended up talking to everybody on the stalls about the different herbs and vegetables and where they were from. I had a slight cold from the flight, and one seller bundled me up a selection of herbs that worked wonders! If you think Lima is just a quick stopover, think again – you could easily spend three days here and not see it all.     The Sacred Valley of the Incas After soaking up the sights and sounds of Lima, I took a short flight to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. The altitude in Cusco is a challenge, so I quickly headed down into the Sacred Valley to acclimatise. The ancient valley is a realm of awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant local communities, and preserved Incan ruins. My stay with the Huilloc community, perched high in the Andes at 3,500 meters above sea level, was a real highlight of my entire trip. You can only reach the village by private car (and a special invitation!), so it was such an honour to visit. This village and its wonderful people in their colourful dress offered an authentic glimpse into traditional Andean life. These authentic moments of magic are what make travel so special. I learned all about their traditions, shared food with them, and even tried my hand at weaving! I’ll never forget it. What’s more, when you visit you’ll see first hand the difference you’re making. Your visit directly helps fund the building of a school for the local children – that was the cherry on the cake for me. I can’t wait to go back again and see it finished!       Machu Picchu Of course, no visit to Peru would be complete without a trip to the incredible Machu Picchu . Hopping on the train and taking in the views as it meandered through the lush mountains, sent my excitement into overdrive. I hiked the Inca Trail last time (beyond special if you’re up to it!), but the train journey was a real treat, with the views getting better around every corner. I struck gold with my guide, Percy, he was brilliant. In his younger days he used to be a porter on the Inca Trail, so he was able to expertly navigate us to the quietest viewpoints away from the crowds and was full of stories and insider knowledge. It was so special soaking it all up away from the hustle and bustle. Words simply can’t capture the magic of Machu Picchu – I’ll let my photos do the talking here! In short, it may be a top tourist highlight, but there are ways to experience this wonder that get you away from the madding crowds. Plus, if hiking isn’t for you, don’t be put off. The train ride is just as beautiful! Do reach out to chat to me more about it if Machu Picchu is on your bucket list. I’ll try my best to get you the legend that is Percy if I can!     Cusco Returning to Cusco (via one of the most lively train journeys of my life!), I spent a few days indulging in its culinary delights, cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and historic monuments. Each corner of this city holds a story, from its grand cathedrals to the bustling markets. I love it. I spent a brilliant afternoon just outside of Cusco at the family-run Sulca Textile Farm. Surrounded by incredible views, I got to learn all about the Incan tradition of weaving, watching the process from start to finish. And the best bit? The farm is packed full of llamas you can feed! There’s a wonderful museum and shop, too. It would make a brilliant addition to a Peru family holiday, kids would love it. I was also lucky enough to visit the ancient site of Sacsayhuamán, just outside the city. Machu Picchu gets all the press, but this is another incredible example of Incan architecture and engineering. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the sacred structures have become an integral part of the landscape around them. Visiting its massive stone walls and breathtaking panoramic views is a must if you’re a history enthusiast!       The Amazon My next adventure took me deep into the Amazon basin . A short flight transported me to a world of lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and serious heat! It was hot hot hot, but just breathtaking. The temperature shift was unbelievable, but with bug spray and sunscreen in hand, I set off on an unforgettable few days. Here, nature reigns supreme. When I arrived at the lodge, I was greeted by a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees, and it didn’t end there! An Amazon highlight for me was when I was at the top of the canopy viewpoint, Scarlet Macaws flying ahead as I watched the magical sunset sink lower in the sky. Then, the massive Amazonian moon rose at the same time – I was one big pile of goosebumps. That moment sparked something phenomenal in me. The next morning, I was lucky enough to watch as the Amazonian sun lit up the clay cliff and before I knew it – it was breakfast time. Suddenly, the air was filled with the sounds of colourful birds swooping down to feed. Parakeets, parrots, and brilliant macaws perched and preened on the cliffs. The vibrant colours and lively calls were amazing. Seeing them gather and feast on the clay was a unique experience. Top Tip: If you’re heading to the Amazon (and I highly recommend it!), make sure you factor in enough time to take things slowly. With the heat and the humidity, having time to relax in a hammock between all of the wildlife wandering is a must!       Lake Titicaca Back in Cusco, I boarded the luxurious Andean Explorer train for an 11-hour journey through some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever witnessed. I took this journey a few years ago, but this time I made sure I soaked up every moment as it wound through the ever-changing landscapes of the Andean Plains. The colours and contrasts were truly captivating. At times it looked a bit like we were flying through the moon, and then at times it was so sparse and barren. Then the next moment you’re passing big packs of llamas grazing. This was real Peru. This scenic ride brought me to Puno and the serene Lake Titicaca, the highest navigational lake in the world, and so so beautiful. When I got to Lake Tititcaca, I stayed at a lodge called ‘’Titilaka’’ located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Titicaca on a tranquil private peninsula shared only with the local Aymara community. Surrounded on three sides by the pristine lake and with four acres of grounds, a perfect base to explore this undiscovered corner of the earth. The lodge had these incredible panoramic windows looking out over Lake Titicaca. It was dark when I arrived, but the next morning I set my alarm for 5.30am to watch the sun rise. It was pinch-myself incredible. I sat in glorious peace and watched the sun rising over the water, and just llamas, birds, the sun, the colours for company. It was fabulous. One of the main draws of going to visit this part of Peru, is to meet some of the local tribes that live on these floating islands. Some of the options can get a little touristy these days, and again, I wanted to do something a little bit different. So, I took off to visit some homestays on the islands. I spent so much time sitting and talking with these tribes, people from Tequil and Uros, all about what they do for a living and how they spend their days. I got to meet their children and share lunch at their home. This was so special, it felt like I was part of the family for a day. I was seeing the real, authentic Peru. There were a couple of absolutely beautiful spots, hosted by the most special people. I’m adding them to my Peru holiday itineraries from now on for sure!       Colca Canyon From Puno, a 6-hour land transfer through the majestic Andes found me perched at the edge of the massive Colca Canyon , the second-deepest canyon in the world. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this incredible part of the world before, but this time I did it a little differently. This time, I glamped! Picture me, camping (very comfortably) under the stars at the edge of the magnificent Colca Canyon. There was a smoking volcano to one side and snow-capped mountains on the other. Peruvian wildlife is everywhere, with horses and llamas dotted around the landscape. I’ll never forget waking up to the birdsong, I felt so grounded and in tune with the Earth. I was lucky enough to have another incredible guide here: Mauricio (a.k.a. Condor Man). He found us a secret spot away from any crowds to sit and watch so many majestic condors in flight. His knowledge was phenomenal, he knew how the birds would move on the thermals, so he told us exactly where to look, stand, and even pose for photos with them. Their wingspans are immense – putting away my camera and quietly watching them soar through the canyon was a humbling experience.       Arequipa My final destination was the White City of Arequipa . This city, with its beautiful colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, was the perfect conclusion to my Peruvian adventure. Again, my guide was top-notch. I wasn’t being shown around the way everybody else was. First, we sat down together, had a coffee, and watched the world go by whilst he told me about the history of the city, little snippets about the culture and all about the different kinds of architecture that can be seen around the streets. Then we explored. Arequipa is his home, and with every single word he said you could tell how passionate he was about his city, his country and his job. He also had a wicked sense of humour, which anyone who knows me, will know went down well!       Phew! What a trip. I didn’t want to leave and I’m already dreaming of my next visit to this incredible country. If you think Peru might be for you, do get in touch on 01242 253 073 , or email me at [email protected] I’m still on such a high from the trip, and having an excuse to share my stories with you ear to ear would make my day!    

The Galapagos Islands , located off the coast of Ecuador, are a unique and spectacular destination, offering the chance to experience the incredible natural beauty and diversity of the area. With its stunning landscapes, amazing wildlife, and fascinating history, it’s not hard to see why the Galapagos Islands attract visitors from all over the world. Planning a trip to this remote and isolated archipelago can be a little daunting – with a whole host of options to choose from. And that’s where we come in! Dawn and Lou, our wonderful Galapagos experts, have a host of first-hand experience exploring these incredible Islands (and the befriending the local wildlife, too!) Below, Dawn shares 10 of her top tips for your Galapagos holiday : Why you’ll love it, when to go, what to pack and things to bear in mind while you’re there!     Why you need to go to the Galapagos Islands “Few things in life are as special as sharing an adventure you’ll never forget with the ones you love… Enter the Galapagos Islands! One of my favourite places on earth, a Galapagos holiday is sure to be a journey of discovery for all ages. It’s the perfect adventure for families looking to enjoy exploring a whole new world of landscapes and wildlife together. There are so many experiences on offer: Head off on a nature walk, try your hand at sea kayaking and explore the many hiking trails. The Galapagos also offers some of the best snorkelling opportunities in the whole world. Half of the islands’ wildlife is found the water line – so be sure to spend some time away from dry land! Swimming with playful young sea lions is one of my very favourite Galapagos memories. It’ll never leave me. A huge part of visiting these special islands is knowing that you’re contributing to their future through the park fees. You’ll come to see its beauty, but you’ll leave with an understanding of just how fragile the Galapagos Islands are and a seriously strong desire to help protect them.”   Explore it all on this 12 day Family Galapagos holiday     Here are 10 top tips from our Dawn, to help make sure you get the very best out of your Galapagos holiday.   1. Choose the right time to visit The Galapagos Islands have a unique climate, with two distinct seasons: the warm, rainy season from December to May, and the cool, dry season from June to November. The best time to visit depends on what you’re most hoping to see, really. If you’re interested in seeing the famous giant tortoises, visit between July and December. If you want to see sea turtles hatching, visit between December and March. And if you want to see whale sharks, visit between June and November.   2. Book your trip early The Galapagos Islands are such a special place. To keep them protected, there are limits in place for how many tourists can visit in any season. So, we recommend that it’s best to book a Galapagos exploration between six months and one year in advance. If you have a specific itinerary, boat, lodge, hotel, or room category in mind though, the further in advance you book, the better. We’ll always do what we can to secure it for you!   Sample the magic on this 9 day Galapagos Taster holiday     3. Make your choice: Cruise or dry land? One of the next decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to head off on a cruise, stay on dry land, or a combination of both!  We can talk through the pros and cons of each option with you and help to come up with a Galapagos adventure that’ll be perfect for you.     4. Respect the wildlife One of the most important Galapagos travel tips is to respect the animals and their natural habitat while visiting. Keep your distance, don’t use your camera’s flash, and do not touch or feed the wildlife.   Adventure in style on this Luxury Galapagos adventure   5. Pack cleverly! When packing for your trip to the Galapagos Islands, it’s important to remember that the climate can be unpredictable. Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong equatorial sun. Also, make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes (break them in before your trip!), a waterproof jacket, and insect repellent.     6. Follow the official rules The Galapagos National Park Directorate created a list of official park rules for all travellers to abide by. These are all written with the intention of protecting this unique place and the wildlife that calls it home. The most important of these guidelines are to always respect your environment, stay with your guide, walk only on the marked trails and to leave no trace of your visit on the islands. Also, always be sure to follow the instructions of your guide – their priority will always be to preserve this amazing natural wonder for future generations.   7. Watch your step Even though there are designated paths, this generally does not stop the animals from passing through or sometimes resting along the trail. Also, keep an eye out for uneven terrain and be sure to hold on tight when stepping on or off the dinghy.   Be wowed by the wildlife of Ecuador and the Galapagos   Galapagos sea lions bathing in the last sunlight at the beach of Espanola island   8. Be alert (and keep your camera handy!) A Galapagos trip is all about the wildlife! Keep your eyes (and ears) open for your chance to spot some incredible and unique creatures. Have your cameras ready in case that perfect shot presents itself. You never know when a seal lion might strike a pose or a Blue-footed boobie might turn up.   Find out what more the Galapagos Islands have to offer   Blue-footed Boobie     9. Explore the water Take advantage of the water activities as underwater exploration presents unforgettable opportunities to swim with an abundance of marine wildlife, including whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish, as well as friendly sea lions!   Spend 12 days island hopping around the wildlife-filled islands     10. Be prepared for the unexpected Despite careful planning, unexpected events can still happen. In the event of bad weather, cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances, it’s important to be flexible and prepared to adjust your itinerary.     In conclusion, a trip to the Galapagos Islands truly is an experience of a lifetime – it deserves a place on your holiday wishlist! By following these top tips for your Galapagos holiday, you’ll make sure that you make the most of your time in this unique and captivating destination. From selecting the right time of year to visit and planning where to stay, to choosing the best activities and respecting the local wildlife. These tips will help you have a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable adventure in the Galapagos. So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of this extraordinary archipelago. Get in touch with Dawn or Lou, our Galapagos experts, on 01242 253 073 to start planning your getaway today.     Latest Posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect 2025 holiday