¡Hola!

We arrived safe and sound last night in Monteverde, Costa Rica:) Here’s a quick recap of our final days in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.

Day 6 – Playa Negra (Black Beach)

The day started off very rainy and unfortunately we didn’t feel so well ourselves either. We knew it was bound to happen and it won’t be the last time. Our plans on visiting the Jaguar Rescue Centre Foundation were foiled (They offer tours daily at 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM for around $20 USD pp). We took the morning to recuperate, read, and watch Netflix (Clair – I LOVE Strange Things!). Later than afternoon, the sun came out and we felt a little better. We visited the black sand beach (Playa Negra) one last time. The waves were huge. Of course Kik went in, while Clair watched concerned from a distance (Clair – “Seriously, the rip tide tho!”).

Final thoughts on Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica – this is a great place to visit if you want to try something new and get (slightly) off the beaten track. There’s something for everyone if you don’t mind a bit of grit along the way.

Day 7 – Trek to Monteverde

We bought our bus tickets the day before at the ticket station located on the main drag (It’s right across from where all the buses congregate). We took the 7:30 am bus (buses depart throughout the day) for approx. $11 per person. We arrived in San Jose at around 12:30 pm. To catch the bus to Monteverde we had to get to Terminal 7-10. It was literally around the corner from the terminal we were dropped off. Terminal 7-10 is really modern and nice with free WiFi. Buses for Monteverde leave twice daily at 6:30 am and 2:30 pm.

We had a terrible lunch of stale sandwiches and hopped on our next bus. The highway is really nice…until the last hour when it turns into gravel roads and massive potholes. Remember to take your Gravol! It is so worth it though. The climate is much cooler here and a refreshing change from the heavy humidity. We are staying at the MapleTico which we booked through AirBnB and so far so good. They arrange for a pickup from the bus station and help get you settled. We went for dinner at Restaurante Tree House which is probably the most expensive restaurant in town. It has  a great atmosphere and live music but the food wasn’t great. Next time, just drinks?

So far Monteverde is exactly what we want it to be! We’re looking forward to doing some hikes and nighttime treks.

¡Adios!