Hidden Costa Rica: A Journey Beyond the Beaten Path
- lucyjanega
- Sep 16
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 16
When people think of Costa Rica, they picture beaches, rainforest, and adventure—and they’re right. But what made my recent trip to Costa Rica unforgettable was how often we found ourselves far from the crowds, discovering untouched places where nature feels raw, authentic, and absolutely magical. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a journey into Costa Rica’s off-the-radar spots. With Memorable Travel Group as my host, this journey revealed Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets in a truly memorable way.
Into the Heart of Rio Celeste
Most travellers head straight to Arenal or Guanacaste’s surfing beaches, but we veered off the tourist trail toward Rio Celeste, tucked deep inside Tenorio Volcano National Park. The drive itself felt like a transition into another world as open swaths of dry agricultural land gave way to lush rainforest and hidden waterfalls.
Celeste Hideaway Hotel
Arriving at Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel was like entering a secluded paradise. Tucked deep within Costa Rica’s untouched jungle, this boutique hotel is not just a place to stay, it’s a destination in itself. Imagine waking up in your private casita, surrounded by the sounds of exotic birds and the whisper (or thundering rain) of the rainforest.
This boutique resort combines luxury and seclusion in perfect balance. Each casita offers spacious comfort—plush beds, outdoor rainforest showers, and private balconies overlooking lush gardens. With a brand-new luxury spa on the way and beautifully designed connecting casitas, this is the perfect retreat for families and couples seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The property is so lush and well-protected that guests can join a guided night jungle tour just steps from their casita door. Led by an expert naturalist, you venture into the darkness with a flashlight, following winding trails alive with the hidden creatures of the night. With incredible skill, guides point out snakes (both harmless and venomous), delicate spiders, glowing fireflies, industrious ants, and frogs in every imaginable colour—some no larger than your fingernail.
Dining
Kantala Restaurant – Dining Al Fresco in the Rainforest
At the heart of Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel is Kantala Restaurant, open and airy, with floor-to-ceiling views of the lush jungle; it is completely immersed in nature. Daily breakfast is always included. Their homemade yogurt is absolutely delicious as well as their made-to-order omelettes. For dinner, guests can expect everything from Caesar salad with quail eggs, to Buffalo Tenderloin made with ingredients sourced locally.
Mandarina Restaurant- Sophisticated Asian Fusion
Another fabulous option for dining on property is the Mandarina Restaurant. The menu focuses on a fusion of Asian cuisine and Costa Rican traditions. The vibe is a little more sophisticated with a stylish bar and creative cocktails.
Location
What truly sets Rio Celeste Hideaway apart is its location inside the Tenorio Volcano National Park region—far from crowded tourist hubs. Here, guests experience the real Costa Rica: wild, vibrant, and off-the-beaten-path. Whether you are nature enthusiasts, honeymooners, or simply seeking tranquility, this property delivers an unforgettable experience of comfort and adventure.
This secluded but luxurious hotel is perfect for:
Eco-luxury travellers who want both style and seclusion
Honeymooners seeking romance in nature
Adventurers eager to hike, birdwatch, or explore Rio Celeste’s iconic waterfall
Anyone who wants to experience Costa Rica’s magic without the crowds
Tenorio Volcano National Park
Hiking through Tenorio Volcano National Park with our guide, Stephen Weston, felt like walking through a living natural history museum. Stephen’s deep knowledge and contagious enthusiasm for countless creatures and plants in the jungle made the experience both educational and magical. Along the way, he revealed many wonders of the rainforest before leading us down 300 steps to the breathtakingly beautiful Rio Celeste Waterfall. (The 300 steps back up, I’ll admit, were less enjoyable!) From there, we continued to hike to a hidden bridge overlooking impossibly blue waters, a secret spot that felt like our own private discovery. The hike was pure adventure: serene, and unspoiled; I highly recommend taking a guided jungle tour with a naturalist such as Stephen.
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve
The Tapir Valley hike was another reminder that Costa Rica’s hidden gems lie beyond the tourist trail. Rubber boots on, we stepped into the untouched beauty of Tapir Valley Nature Reserve, a 220-acre rewilded sanctuary in northern Costa Rica where conservation and curated adventure go hand in hand. As dusk settled over the rainforest, the jungle came alive with the sounds of the creatures of the night. Within just 30 minutes, we were face-to-face with the elusive Baird’s Tapir, one of Central America’s most endangered species. The evening unfolded with the surreal chorus of over 43 frog species, sightings of a spectacled owl, the vibrant red-eyed tree frog, and even a fleeting glimpse of a night hawk. We came close to some of Costa Rica’s most iconic reptiles too—an eyelash viper and the powerful Fer-de-Lance, both reminders of the raw, untamed beauty that this region protects. If you love animals, wild places, and the excitement of spotting rare species, the Tapir Valley tour is an absolute must.
Hacienda Aromal: A Working Heritage Ranch
Before heading to the coast, we stopped at Hacienda Aromal, a traditional working ranch in the dry forest of Guanacaste, owned by the Rivas family for over five generations. Visitors have a chance to step into authentic ranch life and connect with Costa Rican culture. Imagine pressing sugar cane with a “trapiche”, making corn tortillas by hand, cooking over clay ovens and sipping artisan coffee all while basking in the gentle rhythms of rural life.
For thrill-seekers, there’s zip-lining through forest canopy, horseback riding with views of volcanoes, and participating in cattle herding with local “sabanero” cowboys.
All of this is rounded off with hearty Costa Rican food with a farm-to-table experience.
It is perfect for travellers who want more than just scenery; it is perfect for those who want to live the land, learn its history, and feel fully immersed in tradition without sacrificing adventure.
El Mangroove — Boutique Beachfront Escape
Our next stop, was El Mangroove Autograph Collection, a barefoot luxury hotel tucked into the mangroves along the Gulf of Papagayo. El Mangroove is the perfect blend of chic resort comforts and natural serenity. With just 85 suites wrapped in lush gardens and coastal forest, it manages to feel intimate rather than sprawling. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice thoughtful details everywhere: private balconies (many with hammocks), indoor-outdoor touches, natural wood and stone accents, and well-appointed public spaces that still let nature shine through. El Mangroove struck me as that rare place where luxury doesn’t feel overdone, and nature is part of the experience.
Dining
Fresh, local, creative and delicious. The three main restaurants serve everything from casual beach-bar style fare to more refined Latin American and ocean-to-plate inspired dishes. Try Makoko for creative cocktails and ocean views; Matiss for light bites while lounging by the pool; and Malu for a Mediterranean-inspired dining experience. The food was delicious at all three restaurants with some of personal favourites being the fish tacos and guacamole.
Bearth Spa — Calm Amongst the Mangroves
Hidden among the mangroves and rainforest canopy of the Papagayo Peninsula, Bearth Spa is a sanctuary for those needing a reset. The spa treatment rooms are open-air or semi-outdoor, letting you soak in the sounds of birds, water, and wind through leaves as you drift into relaxation. There are a range of rejuvenating treatments—from volcanic stone massages to aromatherapy body polishes, facials, and body wraps—each one infused with natural elements drawn from the surrounding forest and coastline.
This secluded beachfront hotel is perfect for:
Luxury travellers who crave nature but still want to be pampered with high-end amenities
Families seeking comfort & convenience in the spacious suites and family-friendly pool, dining and beach
Adventure-curious travellers can make it a base for day trips including snorkelling, sailing, hiking, or exploring national parks nearby
Wellness & leisure travellers who enjoy the spa, yoga spaces, kayaking, and a focus on relaxation
Catamaran Boating Excursion
A private cruise was the perfect finale to the trip. From El Mangroove Hotel, we boarded a sleek, fully outfitted Fountaine Pajot catamaran, and spent the day exploring the sparkling coastline. A playful pod of dolphins joined us en route, gliding effortlessly alongside the catamaran. We had the chance to swim, snorkel, and paddle board in calm turquoise waters. The attentive crew served us fresh tropical snacks and handcrafted cocktails all while we soaked up the sun and the views. On the way back, the sails went up and the breeze carried us home. This is what pura vida looks like.
Why This Trip Was Different
Costa Rica is beloved worldwide, but what makes it truly special is when you step away from the main trails and dive deeper. This trip revealed some hidden gems where seclusion felt luxurious. If you’re searching for a journey that goes beyond the ordinary, a trip that feels authentic, wild, and off the beaten path, Costa Rica is waiting to surprise you.. Whether you're looking for off-the-beaten path adventure, a once in a lifetime family vacation, or a relaxing romantic getaway, contact me to help you plan your perfect Costa Rican experience.
Comments