Separating Nicoya Peninsula from mainland Costa Rica, Nicoya Gulf is a stunning marine habitat. A geological fault caused the land to submerge, leaving only the tops of low hills exposed as numerous islands.
At its upper end, the gulf is shallow and muddy as the Tempisque River washes soil and organic material into the estuary, and mangroves thrive on the shores, where birds nest and the mud and root systems shelter mussels, crabs and shrimps. Algae flourish in the nutrient rich water, feeding fish and molluscs.
However, the lower reaches the gulf are very different: there are few mangroves and the area is even more sparsely populated, with densely forested hills and promontories reaching down to the sea and closing off secret bays. The water here is saltier, clearer and in addition to brown pelican, Guayabo is also home to boobies, frigatebirds and falcons at certain times of year. This is not an area regularly visited by tourists – a distinct advantage for anyone with a keen interest in wildlife!
Costa Rica boasts spectacular mountains and active volcanoes, pristine beaches, lowland rainforest, high cloud forest festooned with orchids and bromeliads, and tropical wetlands. The amazing diversity of its bird and plant life makes it one of the most fascinating tropical countries to visit. Find out more about Cloud Forests, Jungles & Volcanoes
Explore the best of the west as you traverse Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, home to nesting turtles, humpback whales, scarlet macaws and a huge array of lush rainforest dwellers. In combination with the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, this stunning tailormade holiday can be customised to suit. Find out more about Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast
Ensenada Lodge is a working ranch with a variety of wildlife-rich habitats and an extensive network of trails. Accommodation is in comfortable cabins with a hammock on the verandah – enjoy sunsets over the Gulf of Nicoya from your hammock or while dining under cover of a traditional thatched roof. Find Out More about La Ensenada Lodge
Villa Caletas is a luxurious boutique hotel perched on a hilltop amidst lush tropical rainforest, with breathtaking views over the islands of the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific. Bask in seclusion on the hotel’s private beach, or relax in one of the magnificent infinity pools whilst pairs of scarlet macaws fly by. Find Out More about Villa Caletas
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
