Exploring Costa Rica with Occidental

The beauty of Costa Rica lies in the ability to soak up the sun one moment and easily find an adventure the next.

About 40 minutes from the Occidental Grand Papagayo is Canon de la Vieja, where I spent the day yesterday testing my mental limits by rappelling and physical limits through rock climbing.

I also criss-crossed over a canyon and sailed past the treetops thanks to the on-site zipline course, went white water rafting, and finished the adventure off with a mudbath.

All the while, our group was taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying being immersed in the nature that defines what Costa Rica is all about.

Our trip was led by local tour operator Mardigi Tours, who met us at the hotel and ensured the adventure was catered to our liking. (www.mardigitours.com)

I’ll share more about the experience another time, but now I'm being whisked off for what I’m told is a “challenging hike” within the Tenorio Volcano National Park to Rio Celeste. Wish me luck!