Costa Rica (Lonely Planet, 9th Edition) - Matthew Firestone [477]
There is something to be said for good, solid, waterproof hiking boots. You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for sturdy boots that offer strong support and keep your feet marginally dry. If you can’t stand the idea of walking around with wet feet, consider tossing a pair of sandals into your pack too, and change your shoes for the river crossings. Price: US$100 to US$250.
Travelers should continue to recommend good outfitters (and give the heads up on bad ones) by writing to Lonely Planet.
The following companies organize horseback riding in Costa Rica:
Sarapiquí Aguas Bravas (2292-2072; www.aguas-bravas.co.cr) Offers rafting, biking and horseback-riding day trips around Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí and La Virgen.
Serendipity Adventures (2558-1000, in USA 734-995-0111, 800-635-2325; www.serendipityadventures.com) Creates quality horseback-riding itineraries, including journeys to a Cabécar indigenous reserve.
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Mountain Biking & Motorcycling
Some cyclists claim that the steep, narrow, winding and potholed roads and aggressive Costa Rican drivers add up to a poor cycling experience. This may be true of the main roads, but there are numerous less-trafficked roads that offer plenty of adventure – from winding and scenic mountain paths with sweeping views to rugged trails that take riders through streams and by volcanoes.
Outfitters in Costa Rica and the USA can organize multiday mountain-biking trips around Costa Rica that cover stretches of highland and beach. Gear is provided on trips organized by local companies, but US outfitters require that you bring your own.
Most international airlines will fly your bike as a piece of checked baggage if you box it (remember to pad it well, because the box is liable to be roughly handled). Some airlines might charge you an extra handling fee.
You can rent mountain bikes in almost any tourist town, but the condition of the equipment varies. Another option is to buy a decent bike and sell it back at a reduced rate at the end of your trip. It is advisable to bring your own helmet and water bottle as the selection of such personalized items may be wider in your home country. For a monthly fee, Trail Source (www.trailsource.com) can provide you with information on trails all over Costa Rica and the world.
The following companies organize bike tours in Costa Rica:
Backroads (in USA 510-527-1555, 800-462-2848; www.backroads.com) Offers a variety of excursion including a six-day cycling trip around Arenal and the Pacific coast.
Coast to Coast Adventures (2280-8054; www.ctocadventures.com) Everything from short cycling excursions to 14-day coast-to-coast multisport trips.
Costa Rica Expeditions (2257-0766, 2222-0333; www.costaricaexpeditions.com) Multisport itineraries including cycling, hiking, rafting and other adventures.
Lava Tours (2281-2458; www.lava-tours.com) Reader-recommended tours include a bike ride (mostly downhill) from the Cerro de la Muerte to Manuel Antonio. Offers day trips, multiday packages and riding clinics.
MotoDiscovery (in USA 800-233-6564, 830-438-7744; www.motodiscovery.com) Organizes motorcycle tours through Central America, including an annual one from the Río Grande (known locally as Río Bravo del Norte) in Mexico to the Panama Canal.
Serendipity Adventures (2558-1000, in USA 734-995-0111, 800-635-2325; www.serendipityadventures.com) Creates custom cycling itineraries to fit your schedule and your group.
Western Spirit Cycling (in USA 800-845-2453; www.westernspirit.com) Offers a few different eight-day cycling itineraries.
Wild Rider (2258-4604; www.wild-rider.com) Motorcycle tours; Click here.
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