Costa Rica

We asked Andrea Arroyo, Chef Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, to gather the savviest sight-seeing suggestions she could find—not just her own, but also those of the local connoisseurs, including some she works with every day at the Resort. Arroyo, who recently received the Golden Keys Clef d’Or distinction for excellent service and knowledge, was happy to share some of her favourite ecotourism activities, such as zip lining, river rafting and wildlife viewing.

Explore the Wilds

The original ecotourism destination, Costa Rica is legendary for its natural wonders. Scientists come from all over to study Palo Verde National Park, a rich ecosystem of rivers, marshland, mangroves and the very rare dry tropical forest. (Most of the world’s dry tropical forests are in Guanacaste province.) The park teems with wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, iguanas and nearly 300 species of birds. You can see it all from a flat-bottom boat tour.

Out and About

The best way to see the forest is often from above, as in a zip-line tour through the canopy. Witch’s Rock Canopy Tour is just a few minutes from the Resort. To view the peninsula from the water and to see aquatic life, hop aboard the Resort’s 47-foot (14-metre) Goombay Catamaran for a sunset cruise  on the Gulf of Papagayo. Another adventure tour is to the Canyon at Guachipelin, where you can rappel, climb walls and swing through the jungle before a horseback ride and a chance to swim beneath a cool waterfall.

If Golf’s Your Game

The Arnold Palmer–designed Four Seasons Golf Club Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo  has a whopping 14 holes with breathtaking views over the Pacific Ocean or bay, along with significant elevation changes and tremendous variety. The signature sixth hole features a dramatic 446-yard par-4 with a tee shot that plays 200 feet downhill to a receptive valley-shaped fairway. The course also utilizes many eco-friendly practices and has earned Audubon International’s coveted Sanctuary status.