Earlier this autumn, our Head of Trade Relations, Gaynor Atherton, led a group of our Elite travel agents on an unforgettable Latin Routes FAM trip to Costa Rica. From misty cloud forests to vibrant wildlife encounters, the itinerary was packed with adventure, discovery, and pure pura vida spirit.
"Costa Rica is one of my favourite destinations and to be able to share this beautiful country with our agents and see and hear their reactions and feelings was very special for me" - Gaynor Atherton
________________________________________
What was the journey the group took?
The group’s adventure began in San José, with a warm welcome at Hotel Presidente, setting the tone for a week of authentic Costa Rican hospitality.
From there, they travelled north to Tortuguero National Park, where dense jungle and winding canals offered endless wildlife-spotting opportunities. Staying at Pachira Lodge, the group enjoyed early-morning boat safaris and learned about the incredible biodiversity that defines this region.
Next stop: Arenal, where the majestic volcano set the backdrop for an immersive nature experience. Highlights included a magical night walk to spot nocturnal creatures and a soothing dip in the Tabacon Hot Springs. The team also visited several top-tier properties including the luxurious Nayara Resorts, giving everyone a feel for the range of experiences Costa Rica offers.
The journey continued to Monteverde, home of the mystical cloud forest. While the planned Lake Crossing had to be adjusted, spirits were high as the group arrived by road. Here, they took on the Sky Tram and Ziplining adventure, explored lush trails, and enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the charming Sibu Boutique Hotel.
The trip concluded in Manuel Antonio, where tropical rainforest meets pristine beaches. Although the National Park visit was cut short due to torrential rain, the team’s persistence paid off – spotting a sloth just 50cm away and playful spider monkeys at Arenas del Mar was an unforgettable finale.
________________________________________
A Truly Individual Experience
Every stop on the itinerary showcased Latin Routes’ Truly Individual style – from eco-lodges and boutique hotels to wildlife encounters and cultural touches. The Conscious Routes Collection properties like Nayara, Senda Monteverde, and Arenas del Mar demonstrated Costa Rica’s strong commitment to sustainability and community.
_______________________________________
What the travel agents had to say
Heather Tarrant
“What an amazing trip! My favourite parts were seeing the sloth so close and the night walk. I loved all the properties, especially Nayara. Hidden gems were definitely Sibu and Poco a Poco. Amazing experience on the best fam ever!”Claire King
"Just back from Costa Rica wow what a country it offers wild nature and warm hospitality Pura Vida is a way of life I felt genuinely welcomed through out our whole trip by everyone we met they are so warm and sincere.
I absolutely loved the wildlife we were so lucky to see a sloth up close at Parador Manuel Antonio along with the monkeys playing outside our room and I have to say the food was so delicious everywhere we went my favourite dish the ceviche amazing. Costa Rica has so much more to offer and I know this wasn't a once in a life trip I will find my way back to its warmth."
Gemma Taylor, Millington Travel
“Costa Rica has always been a dream destination, and it didn’t disappoint. From the boat transfer through Tortuguero’s canals to the night safari in Arenal and the beach at Manuel Antonio – the whole trip was fantastic. The only negative was coming home! Thank you, Gaynor, for being an amazing host.”Antonella Medgett, Premier Travel
“Costa Rica – small country, big wonders! Every day left us saying ‘wow’. My favourite moment was standing just a metre away from a sloth at the Parador in Manuel Antonio – overwhelming! The night walk was priceless, and lunch with the wildlife at Arenas del Mar was unforgettable.”Costa Rica once again proved why it’s one of Latin America’s most diverse and captivating destinations – where lush nature, warm hospitality, and adventure come together in perfect harmony.
Gaynor adds:
"The enthusiasm of the group blew me away on this trip – ever single day they were excited for the day ahead whether that was the potential of seeing a sloth and other wildlife or the apprehension of doing something new, like ziplining for the first time. Each one of the ladies were positive and happy to be totally involved in all activities. It was also great to see how they shared our passion for sustainability with our visits to some of our conscious routes properties.
To experience a country first-hand is so valuable for agents – they will now share our passion for Costa Rica and be able to sell it easily to their clients – one of our agents has already booked some clients to Costa Rica after being back 1 week!"
Join us for the Latin Routes Travel Agent Academy 2026 – Costa Rica, taking place from 20 to 27 September 2026.
Are you a travel agent? Spend two days immersed in expert destination training before discovering Costa Rica’s tropical rainforests, volcanic landscapes and wildlife on a five-night educational adventure.
This is your opportunity to deepen your Latin America knowledge, connect with key suppliers, and experience the Conscious Routes Collection first hand. Apply now for your chance to join our next Academy trip to Costa Rica.
