Bijagua: Authentic Costa Rican Cooking, Wildlife, and Coffee & Cacao Experience
Starting at $199
Discover Costa Rica’s essence in Bijagua with this immersive experience that combines nature, culture, and culinary traditions. From spotting wildlife like sloths and toucans in secluded reserves to hands-on cooking with local hosts and a coffee and cacao tour, this journey offers an authentic look into Costa Rican rural life.
Authentic Costa Rican Culture & Nature: Wildlife, Cooking, Coffee & Cacao in Bijagua
This one-of-a-kind excursion invites you to explore Bijagua’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Journey through private reserves rich in wildlife, where you may spot sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds in their lush habitats. Then, experience Costa Rican hospitality firsthand with a traditional cooking class in a local home, followed by a tour through coffee and cacao plantations. Alongside breathtaking scenery, you’ll gain insights into Costa Rica’s rural lifestyle and a taste of its rich culinary and agricultural legacy. Perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful connection with Costa Rica’s nature and local communities, this excursion is designed to offer both adventure and cultural immersion.
Specifics:
- 🕒 Pick Up Time: 6:30 am (recommended for optimal experience)
- 📍 Meeting Point: At your accommodation or hotel’s main lobby
- ⏳ Duration: Full-day experience
- 🚙 Driving Time: Approximately 2.5 hours each way
- 🙋♂️ Minimum Amount of People: 2 people
- 👶 Minimum Age: All ages welcome
- 💲 Price Includes: Round-trip private transportation, traditional lunch, bilingual tour guide, all taxes and fees, and admission tickets to all featured sites and activities
- 💡 Price Note: The listed price applies to groups of 4 or more travelers. For groups of 2, the price is $316 per person, and for groups of 3, it’s $236 per person. If your group includes more than 9 people, please contact us for a customized quote.
- 🛑 Not included in the price: Breakfast, souvenirs, gratuities, or any items and services not mentioned in the “Included” section
Why You Should Consider This Activity:
- ✔️ Experience Bijagua’s Hidden Natural Wonders: Escape the crowds and discover private tropical reserves that offer a quieter, more personal encounter with wildlife. Spotting toucans, monkeys, dart frogs, and sloths in their natural habitat creates an unforgettable, immersive experience in the heart of nature.
- ✔️ Deepen Your Connection with Nature: This easy guided walk isn’t just about seeing wildlife—it’s about learning. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll uncover fascinating details about Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. Whether you’re a nature lover or curious traveler, this walk provides enriching insights that deepen your appreciation for the rainforest.
- ✔️ Immerse Yourself in Costa Rican Culture: Get hands-on in a cooking class that celebrates one of Costa Rica’s most beloved traditions, Cafecito de la Tarde. By preparing traditional snacks like corn tortillas, empanadas, or rosquillas, you’ll gain a deeper connection to the local culture in a fun and interactive way.
- ✔️ Explore the Legacy of Coffee and Cacao: Costa Rica’s coffee and cacao have shaped its culture and economy. This tour takes you beyond the surface—allowing you to see, touch, and taste the plants in their natural setting, and participate in their traditional processing. It’s an educational experience that blends history, nature, and flavor.
- ✔️ Enjoy a Scenic Journey to Bijagua: The beauty of Costa Rica is on full display during the drive to Bijagua. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of volcanoes and lush cattle ranches, making the journey itself a scenic highlight of the day.
- ✔️ Support Local Communities and Sustainable Tourism: By joining this private tour, you’re making a positive impact on Bijagua’s community. Every activity is thoughtfully selected to benefit local families, giving you an authentic glimpse into their way of life while helping to sustain their livelihoods and cultural heritage.
What To Expect:
7:00 AM – Pick-Up and Scenic Drive
Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or vacation rental in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. As you journey through the scenic landscapes of Guanacaste’s pampa, your guide will point out landmarks and share insights about the local culture and environment. The drive, approximately 2.5 hours, takes you through cattle ranching country and into the lush foothills of the Miravalles and Tenorio Volcanoes, providing a rich view of Costa Rica’s rural life.
Arrival and Nature Walk
Upon arrival at the private reserve, take a moment to freshen up before beginning your guided nature walk. The trail is mostly flat, offering a comfortable experience for all fitness levels. Led by a local guide with deep knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna, this walk offers a chance to spot toucans, sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife. While sightings are never guaranteed, the region’s biodiversity often provides delightful encounters, including the occasional appearance of the elusive tapir. The reserve’s unique location near the continental divide allows species from both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes to converge, making it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Costa Rican Home Visit & Hands-On Cooking Class
Next, you’ll visit a traditional Costa Rican home, where a warm welcome awaits. Begin with a tour of the property, where you’ll learn about the plants, animals, and everyday life on a rural farm. Depending on the time, you may encounter cows, chickens, or other animals typical of many rural Costa Rican homes. Inside, join your hosts in a hands-on tortilla-making session, crafting and cooking your own corn tortillas under their guidance. You’ll enjoy the tortillas with local toppings like cheese, natilla, or fresh picadillo. This authentic experience offers a personal glimpse into Costa Rican traditions and hospitality.
Coffee and Cacao Experience
Delve into the history and cultural importance of Costa Rica’s iconic coffee and cacao crops. Guided by experts, you’ll see the coffee and cacao plants, learn about their growth cycles, and—when in season—sample the fresh fruits. Engage in the traditional methods of processing and enjoy tasting freshly prepared coffee and chocolate drinks. This interactive experience provides a meaningful perspective on Costa Rica’s agricultural heritage, with the option to purchase coffee or chocolate as a unique souvenir.
Traditional Costa Rican Lunch
Enjoy a classic casado lunch, a traditional Costa Rican meal featuring white rice, red or black beans, fresh salad, and a choice of protein like chicken, pork, beef, or cheese. We’re happy to accommodate dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options—just let us know in advance. Complemented by fresco, a natural fruit drink made with seasonal fruits like passion fruit or mango, this meal offers a refreshing taste of Costa Rica.
Return to Your Hotel
After lunch, your guide will drive you back to your hotel or vacation rental. Restroom facilities will be available before departure, ensuring a comfortable ride back after a fulfilling day of cultural and natural exploration.
What to Bring:
Essentials:
Recommended:
Additional Info:
- Age Requirement: There is no minimum age to join this excursion.
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
- Languages: Available in Spanish and English
- Physical Rating: Leisurely – suitable for all fitness levels
- Group Size: All group sizes are welcome to enjoy this experience.
- Surroundings: Land-based Activity
Essential Considerations
Explore Costa Rica’s Authentic Side
Join us for an immersive journey that deepens your connection with Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage.
Join the Adventure!Cancellation Policy:
We understand that plans can change. Cancellations made at least 72 hours before the scheduled excursion will receive a full refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made between 72 and 48 hours before the excursion will receive an 80% refund, minus any applicable bank or financial service fees. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the excursion are non-refundable, and no-shows will incur a 100% penalty charge.
All changes and cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to hello@linkexpeditions.com and must be confirmed by us to take effect. Please note that tours, excursions, activities, and field trips must be prepaid in full to secure your booking. All prices are quoted in USD.
Some experiences we offer are facilitated by trusted vendors we have carefully selected to align with our values. For these specific activities, the cancellation policy will be subject to the vendor’s terms and conditions. For example, fishing and private catamaran tours typically have a 50% penalty charge if canceled within 21 days.
While we strive to accommodate everyone, our cancellation policies are in place to help us continue providing you with the best possible service. Late cancellations not only affect our operations but also limit opportunities for other travelers who may have wished to book. By adhering to these policies, we can ensure your excursions and transportation are secure, offering you a smooth and hassle-free experience.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
