Internationale groepsreis Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

What a great  country Costa Rica is! Really accessible for all, great wildlife everywhere, fantastic culure and to top it all off really suited to cycling.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling along with one of the leaders who eagle eyes spot 4 white faced capuchin monkeys messing about in a tree beside the road. Cycling through the mountainous regions in the middle of the itinerary. Great views and brand new tarmac; so perfect for cycling.

What did you think of your group leader?

All staff were fantastic.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If travelling in UK springtime, be aware that it is difficult to get properly bike fit during the UK winter. The heat does get tough on the first few days so keep the water levels up. The first hotel is very nice so I would recommend flying out a day early to relax before the cycling starts.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotels are all very good. Really vary is style and location but all have their own charms. Swimming pools at the end of each day are extremely welcome.

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Feb 2016

A truly amazing holiday! Hot and very sweaty cycling was a big part of almost every day (the first few days on the Pacific Coast were particularly hot)- but we did so much more besides! Beware if you don't like early mornings! - we were up by 6am most days, breakfast by 6.30 and on the bikes not long after that! We didn't often cycle more than 10 - 12 miles without a break and it was always wonderful to see the bus and Ronald our driver cutting up delicious fruit for us!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The beauty of the mountainous regions - especially first thing in the morning. The warmth of the Pacific sea The "sunset" canoe trip Scarlet Macaws literally flying in front of our faces on our "day off" as we cycled to the beach .... many more!

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto was fantastic in every respect! Very professional, organised and hard working with an eye for detail. He connected with every member of the group and was always supportive and thoughtful. He had a very good knowledge of wildlife and bird life, but also of the history and and geography of his country.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't forget to pack Imodium (a few of us needed it!), lots of mosquito repellent, high factor suncream, binoculars, a jumper and trousers for the few days in the mountains..... and of course a good camera to capture the wild life.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A huge thank you to Roberto for his leadership and also to Ronald our wonderful driver and Deo our mechanic and patient cyclist often bringing up the rear . They all made us feel so welcome in their beautiful country!

Costa Rica cycling coast to coast

Costa Rica is an amazingly varied country, with different landscapes and vegetation in relatively close proximity, and with a hugely rich and abundant wildlife. The cycling was mainly on Tarmac roads - the majority of which were great - some days they were undulating, but there were some more challenging hills...& it was hot! Whilst cycling was the focus of the trip, there were other great activities arranged including walks in the national parks & boat trips with informative guides, and visits to coffee and banana plantations, botanical gardens, beaches, hot springs, a museum, church, school etc. Fantastic organisation & leadership (see below) & can't speak highly enough of Roberto who was organised, informative, delightful, funny and just great at his job. Accommodation wasn't luxurious (though the beds were comfortable), hot water a bit patchy, but generally in fabulous locations & in amongst the wildlife...& beautiful in the early mornings in particular. The food was generally good & places we ate at well chosen, but it wasn't gourmet quality - Though the fruit and fruit juices were amazing. We were so well looked after & it is certainly a trip that I would recommend highly to others.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

So many highlights, it is hard to keep this brief: . Jungle crocodile safari on the Tarcoles River - saw so much & great guide . The wildlife, birds & butterflies - so abundant & exotic. The sloth in the grounds of the hotel at Tortugero; toucans, humming birds & other amazing birds & animals - most abundant in the Manuel Antonio National Park . The beauty & rich variety of the landscapes & early morning mists . The beaches at Manuel Antonio & Playa Platanares . The school visit . The hot springs at La Fortuna . Time with our wonderful guide, Roberto & the rest of the group who were great

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto is a fantastic guide... A delightful man who is kind, funny, and very genuine as well as highly organised (though relaxed with it & never 'stressy'), informative & knowledgeable. He worked so hard, but made it look effortless - & it all ran so smoothly - we never had to wait for the bus, a tour, a guide, or for food & he always seemed to provide us with a great guide for the extra activities & was always there to answer questions and deal with any queries. He was very clear about dangers on the road, & reminded us when the roads were wet & there were rough patches ahead. One of our party unfortunately had an accident on the last day & Roberto had to take him to the hospital. Whilst that necessitated the cycling finishing early & a change in the itinerary, Roberto was able to conjure up an alternative plan from nowhere very quickly so that the remainder of the group were fed and properly cared for in the meantime. I can't recommend him highly enough. He worked really well with Ronald (our fabulous driver) & the lovely young mechanic, Dio, who changed my burst tyre in the blink of an eye & quietly & efficiently got on with blowing up tyres & fixing minor glitches/turning on lights/loading bikes etc without fuss. They worked very well together & made the holiday such a joy.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for heat (though odd days of colder wetter weather); take mosquito repellant & Imodium & some washing powder to rinse out cycling shorts & tee-shirts at the end of the day. Binoculars, and good camera with zoom lens are a must - & I would recommend a wildlife/bird book to identify what you will see & a diary to keep notes.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I can't speak highly enough of our guide. The accident on our last day was such a shame as it had been a brilliant 2 weeks & Roberto was key to that. He is such a lovely mix - fantastically well organised, delightful & charming in a very genuine way & he made it all so easy & such fun (including providing a flag and claxton at the end of the toughest hill to encourage us!). He was also very interesting and interested - which really helped the group to bond well & be relaxed together.

Trip of a lifetime

This was a wonderful trip: the wildlife and scenery are superb and there is a good mix of challenge (one 1.2Km hill at 1 in 3 gradient (!) and one 5Km climb but also some great downhill runs and nice flat stretches. There are some long bus transfers but otherwise you wouldn't cover as much ground. we were very lucky to be in such a nice group and our group leader and his team ('Memo' Sanchez, Ronald Miranda (the driver) and Dionisio Alvarado) were excellent. Driving in Costa Rica can be a nightmare and Ronald got us all safely through the trip. Memo knew so much about all the wildlife and organised all the meals / payments with the minimum of fuss. He and Dionisio were superb cyclists and could easily match the pace of anyone in the group and always did their best at junctions to keep us safe and heading in the right direction! Crises where they arose were well-managed. The itinerary was well constructed with rest days at excellent locations. We saw lots of monkies and the two inclusive water-based tours were very rich in wildlife - I never new there were that many different herons and egrets! Crocodiles and caymans looked menacing on cue and the noisy scarlet macaws and their smaller cousins were regular 'spots' - and such beautiful toucans as well. You will get up close and personal with the production of coffee, sugar cane, pineapples, bananas, palm oil, etc. and understand the importance to their local economy and to the environment.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The hummingbirds are such beautiful little things and at the highest point of the tours, at about 10,000-feet (happily reached by bus rather than bike!), a restaurant stop for coffee comes with free views on masses of these birds which come to the feeders and can be persuaded (easily) to land on your hand!

What did you think of your group leader?

Memo (Guillermo) was excellent and worked so well with his team of Ronald and Dionisio to make sure that we all made it through safely and had a good time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

When we travelled (in November 2015), it was hot and humid, and most afternoons it poured rain (happily most cycling was concluded by the time the heavens opened each day, so we rarely got wet in the saddle from rain - that was just lucky, I guess). You will eat a lot of rice and beans! Binoculars and a good camera would seem essential. It didn't really matter if you had US dollars or local currency - most places where we needed to spend accepted dollars at a fair rate (never worse than 500 colones to US$1. ATMs are not that plentiful, but do exist and many dispense local currency or dollars. Some of the roads used are busy with lorries and cars and some of the drivers are maniacs! There is usually a hard shoulder or sorts for cycling and road surfaces are generally very good. Single file cycling is the usual arrangement.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

You will have no regrets about going on this holiday - but you will work hard!

Costa Rica Coast to Coast - Just do it. You have to do it!

Absolutely amazing trip. From start to finish. Sights, accommodation, wildlife. All of it. I wrote more about it in my blog http://spinbella.com/2015/11/22/why-cycling-is-simply-the-dogs-bollocks/. Excellent bikes and the whole back up team.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing so many crocodiles and monkeys. Spending time in beautiful lodges with only wildlife around us.

What did you think of your group leader?

Memo was fantastic. He made us laugh but also feel we were safe and well looked after. His wildlife spotting skills were so good they were annoying... Make sure he shows you his drawing of a sloth's digestive system. Seriously... I had medical issue and the team couldn't be more helpful. With Dionisio the mechanic and Ronald - the best bus driver in CR - they were the A-Team. Memo was very organised, knowledgeable and clearly loves his country which made the whole holiday great.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We went at the end of the wet season which basically seem to be: morning till 1pm - hot, humid but no rain. From 1pm - downpours. Warm but torrential. $50 or $100 are a no no. Get small denominations.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I loved the crew, the group and I WANNA GO BACK! Next year it will probably be Nicaragua, Panama & Costa Rica. So worth the money :)

Costa Rica Coast to Coast ride

A great trip with a good balance of cycling & other activities. Lots of wildlife to see which was all around, no need to go & hunt it out Stayed in several jungle/ rain forest areas & away from other tourists often in bungalow type rooms.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing the beautiful birds but also the early morning call from the Howler monkeys

What did you think of your group leader?

Very good. Very well organised efficient & safe but also lots of fun

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The cycle mileage isn't high but at the time of year we did it good to be finished by lunch most days in case of the rain storms Also several hills but mostly manageable by the average cyclist, no problem for a good cyclist

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Costa Rica Cycling Coast to Coast

A fabulous cycling holiday with an opportunity to experience nature at it's best.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

A boat trip to stay two days in a lodge in the National Park.

What did you think of your group leader?

Andreas our group leader was as good as they get. First, he understood cycling and all the risks attached an put safety at the top of his agenda. As a guide he had an exceptional and proud knowledge of his country and all it's birds, animals and fauna .As a team Andreas, as leader, Walter, as mechanic and rear gun cyclist and Louis, bus driver and responsible for refreshments, couldn't have done a better job. They were a pleasure to be with. Andreas's ability to speak English was better than mine as a Scot!!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Cycling in Costa Rica can be dangerous. On the west coast in particular the roads are good with lots of fast, heavy traffic. A cycle lane exists and MUST be used and single file cycling is essential. Steep hills are the norm here and I wouldn't recommend this holiday for novices.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A wonderful country. We covered a great extent of it and felt absolutely safe, apart from traffic. San Jose is quite an unusual city as is widely spread but wonderful once you found your way around. Nice bars and some good hotels. As a Brit I would say it is about 30% more expensive than here as the currency is tied to the American dollar. Food good though. Definitely worth a visit. Exodus you did a great job, once more.

Costa Rica Coast to Coast

Great trip covering nearly 300 miles, through varied scenery. Guided walks, boat trips, wildlife, plantation tours all added a little extra. The 'rollings' (rolling hills), and 'good hills' certainly made good use of the low gears, but there were some great downhill sections too.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were lots of great moments -the 7.5 mile downhill (no pedalling required!), the wildlife, the optional zip wire trip, the unending pineapple and watermelon supply..... the list could go on

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto (Chino) was excellent. Good humour. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Appropriate encouragement - but happy to let people opt out if hills too big or legs too sore. Well supported by Eugenio (Neno) the bus driver and Izack the cycle guide / mechanic. If you mentioned a bike issue it was sorted there and then or overnight. Really efficient in paying for some meals and then giving us a bill - saved a lot of time and hassle.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I'd try to pay in (and use) colones generally if you can - so get at the airport or bring with you. Although US$ widely accepted we found we often lost on the conversion both ways (ie on paying and then on calculating change). Be warned the 23% tax and service added to bills The mosquitos bite! You'll need plenty of insect repellent for both day and evening. Get on and book!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The coffee tour was too long and repetitive - needed to be shortened as people lost interest and even managed to fall asleep during it! You can get washing done in the two places you stay more than one night. Humidity means washing doesn't always dry overnight (well not in October anyway!) If you wake easily - take an eye mask. No hotel room had curtains or blinds that kept out the light. If you don't like pineapple, watermelon or eggs your food choices may be limited!

Coast to Coast Smiles

An incredible trip of a lifetime. A beautiful country with an astounding array of wildlife, happy people and wonderful cycling. We met some lovely like minded people and learnt so much about this fascinating country from our superb local guide. We didn't want to leave, and would love to do it all again!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

More than just one! Rescuing a three toed sloth out of the middle of the road! Seeing all 4 species of monkey in the wild. Completing the tour with a wonderful bunch of people

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto was excellent. Could not have asked for a more knowledgable, fun, caring and organised guide. He gave us so much interesting information about his country. Roberto and his team (Luiz and Savo) really made it the trip of a lifetime.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take both American dollars and colones to Costa Rica. Both are widely accepted but it's useful to have the choice No need for sleeping bag liners or mosquito nets, though a good supply of deet was required at times. However, the mozzies weren't very evident anywhere. Take your own saddle or gel cover unless you are used to a mans mtb bike saddle. We found that a top tube bag was great for carrying a compact camera. Seat bag is supplied on bike but is full with spare inner tube. We took energy bars but didn't really need them. Every break stop had plentiful supplies of lovely fresh fruit and granola bars. No need to take water bottles, and you can top up from the bus with water or energy drink. We went at end of March and it was pretty hot so be prepared! Bus has lovely air con though!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Costa Rica - Coast to Coast

This is a good trip, it can be very hot and humid in places so be prepared for some sweaty cycling. The scenery is great and there are quite a few breathtaking views down into the valleys, the wildlife is quite sparce but it is there if you look for it, and the guided walks and boat tours are well worth the effort if wildlife is what you are looking for. Some of the hotels are not of a very high standard compared to the U.S. and pretty basic, don't expect to sit watching TV in the evening as most of the hotels didn't have one. There are a few lodges which are really nice, there is one in particular that has a pool which overlooks the sea, it is worth waiting around for the sunset (but wear insect repellent!) The food is ok but like everyone else has said be prepared for rice and beans for breakfast, lunch and dinner! It says moderate but there are some pretty big hills that will challenge even the fittest cyclist! The cycling days are pretty short and could/should have been longer. When you consider this is a cycling holiday, you do spend quite a lot of time in the bus so be prepared with books/ipod etc..

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being woken by howler monkeys was pretty special! The first few hotels had heated pools. OH MY! that was a nice end to the day.. The boat tours were a nice break from the the bikes/bus there are plenty of birds to see, but if you want crocs/ gators go to Florida! We stopped at a banana plantation and as luck would have it, we were passed by an employee pulling the banana train which was unexpected.

What did you think of your group leader?

The tour guides are really good, full of knowledge and advice and accommodating where possible. The crew are quite helpful if you have any issues with your bike but before setting off from the first hotel make sure you are happy, take your bike out on the road and run up and down through the gears, you will need them later and it's easier to sort it out there than out on the road. Make sure everything is to your liking, or get them to change it.. you paid for it!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Things to take with you, a plug for washing clothes in the sink. None of the hotels provide a sink plug, washing line or hangers for drying wet clothes. Mesh clothes bags for anything that hasn't dried the night before! There are a couple of hotels that provide washing facilities so take enough clothes to cover you for 3-4 days. (One of the hotels dry cleaned the cycling gear, though). Take your own water bottles as the ones provided are not new, and have been used previously. Do not hang around in the airports as the flight connections are pretty tight and U.S. immigration queues can be very long and they really take their time to process travelers, frustrating+ when you are in a hurry. Take sweat towels or bandanas as it can get really hot, also remember to take a dry bag for valuables if you plan doing anything in the water. Take your time, you will feel the urge to rush, but it's your holiday so stop to take photo's whenever you want. There are cyclists of all ages and abilities, so you can kick back and set a nice steady pace or knock it up a gear and give Paul a challenge! Expect quite a bit of main road cycling as there will be quite a few miles on the pan american highway, and as we discovered the locals are very laid back until they get behind the wheel of a car!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Learn a bit of spanish before you go, it's fun and appreciated by the locals! It's a shame they don't include Monteverde Cloud Forest as part of the tour as this is the number 1 destination for travellers according to the guide books, it may be worth asking Exodus for an extension to your holiday which a few people on our trip did if you have the time . If you can get local currency (colones) it makes things a bit cheaper, but we used US$ and only felt cheated on one occasion, most places were very fair with the exchange rates, and make sure you use any local currency up before coming home, pay at the airport and the excess on your card.

Costa Rica Coast to Coast

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Pura Vida, Costa Rica!

What a holiday and what a country! This trip more than lived up to our expectations and gave us a wonderful introduction to Latin America. We had a great crowd to travel with, the countryside was beautiful and varied from coast to mountain to rain forest, and the local people could not have been more friendly. All of this, coupled with great cycling, and plentiful food, made it a holiday that will remain long in the memory.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There really are too many to list, but if I had to choose just one it would be our night's stay in the eco-lodge high up in the mountains surrounded by beautiful gardens full of exotic birds, insects and plants.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto "Chino" was an absolute gem. His enthusiasm and knowledge made him not only great company but also a fantastic ambassador for his country. Nothing was ever too much trouble, he had the patience of a saint no matter what situations arose and a smile and a laugh were never far away. Our trip would not have been the same without him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A fair level of cycling fitness is required for those days when there are some serious climbs to be negotiated - don't forget that this is a mountainous country and some of the climbs go on for a very long time. However, these are more than worth it when they are in beautiful surroundings and are invariably followed by gloriously winding stretches of fast downhill on smooth tarmac. There are plenty of snacks and fresh fruit supplied along the way, together with energy drink (Gatorade) and water, so you don't really need to bring any from home. If you use clipless pedals at home bring them with you as they really are useful for the long climbs.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food is good and plentiful but fairly simple. Gallo pinto (rice and beans) is to be found at virtually all meals but we quickly got used to it and ended up loving it - we now cook it at home! Throw yourself, heart and soul into the trip and you are sure to enjoy it as much as we did. Pura Vida!

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

A great introduction to Costa Rica.  Cycling is a great way to explore this laid back, friendly, inspirational country.  Despite its size, it has a huge amount to offer - friendly, hospitable, helpful people,  beautiful beaches, spectacular views, lush rainforests, waterways, volcanoes and masses of wildlife!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

To be woken by the birds and monkeys at 5.30 every morning!  At a time when much of the western world is paying the price for greed and overspending, it was humbling (and inspirational) to see a nation making different choices to secure a sustainable future.

What did you think of your group leader?

Francesco was fabulous.  He worked hard to make the trip the best it could be.  He was sociable, organised, relaxed and helpful.  Nothing was too much trouble and he went out of his way to make sure everyone was happy and having a good time. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take your binoculars - there is plenty to see in the national parks and on the river trips.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

Excellent destination, however trip notes said moderate but as a club cyclist I thought that some days were very hard.  As Costa Rica is a wonderful and exotic country, cycling at mountain bike pace was really good.  Everywhere was colourful, even the locals.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Estuary river cruise was really good with an excellent and well informed guide.   Lunch with Richard Beatham was very interesting as was the sight of our first Scarlet Macaw.

What did you think of your group leader?

Some problems here, as I felt organisation on first few days was  lacking.  1st day tour bus left everyone and waited for us at lunch stop.  I waited for a few of the backmarkers, which left my wife cycling on her own.  Group leader always blamed someone/something for any problems and took no responsibility at first.  He got better as trip went on.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A good level of fitness is required, ability to cycle some steep hills and to cope with heat and humidity.  Not easy if you live in UK.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

An excellent bike trip taking in the highlights of Costa Rica its wildlife and cultures. However, in places I would say this trip verges on moderate to strenuous rather than purely moderate.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being hosed down, quite literally, after a wet muddy day. Screaming downhill after many of the hard climbs Enjoying a nice swim and a cold beer after many of the hot days. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Kevin was an amazing group leader. He made sure the group was looked after be it in the saddle or should any minor issue arise during the trip. He was supported by excellent guides (Paul and Alfonso) plus a very good and conscientious driver (Luis). 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A few notes about what Exodus recommend that differ from the actuallity 1) water bottles were supplied so we didn't need ours 2) the bikes came with cycle computers 3) if you use cleats or toe clips and do not mind not having your own pedals they may be able to supply them (ask in advance) 4) get used to rice and beans!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is our second organised bike tour and the first with Exodus. The tour was amazing with a good level of riding, great scenery, tours and most of all, a great group. The hotels were all really nice with pools, cold beers and cocktails on-tap. A highly recommended tour.

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

This was my first group holiday normally prefereing to travel independently however, I got to the last day and would have liked to have done it again straight away!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The cycling, the views, the wildlife (although it did like to hide when we had tropical down pours) and the locals where fantastic but most of all we had a really excellent group to travel with. Many sites enjoyed together and the odd beer had together while musing on the days cycling and excursions. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Kevin was excellent in his job of leading the trip dealing with most of the curve balls thrown at him in such trip by the weather, travel options (boats) and the normal characters challengnes that araise from brining together 16 individuals. His team - Luis, Paul and Alfonso supported him fantastically keeping us safe, fit and well. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you are used to cycling relatively tough 10 mile streches this will be a great trip as even on the 30 mile plus days we had good rest breaks with pineapple and snacks to replenish our energies (and always rice and beans for the main meals). However, there are some really tough sections but there is no pressure to do section you do not feel up to. Also, there are some busy sections of road and we encountered a few due to diverted traffic issues elsewhere in the country but if you are a confident road cyclist you should deal with these.   The long bus transfer sections never proved a problem as there was always plenty to see or someone to set the word to rights with.   Bring spare cycling shorts and t-shirts you will needs them.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The bikes where brand new for our trip, the team had punctures and mechanical problems fixed or patched on the fly quickly so nobody missed any miles on the bikes. The choice of hotels was great, and would advise anyone thinking of booking independent hotels not to bother! Food provided and restaurants recommeded by Kevin always came up to scratch. The Turrialtico lodge for the food, views and generally excellent evening we had even if it was a bit wet. The humming birds at the cafe stop on the Cerro de la Muerte, the beach day off at Puerto Jimenez. The views, sunset from the swimming pool and my favourite meal at the Hotel Villas Gaia all after a great long ride. The best ride from Las Cruces to Paso Real across the rolling hills and views. Finally, the private spa at La Fortuna that Kevin sorted out for us, with cocktails in the hot springs, fantastic! 

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

Because the country is small our bikes enabled us to see a variety of scenery, far more than a walking trek,  and gave us time to visit National Parks, Botanical gardens, coffee and pineapple plantations.We also saw a huge number of birds, all beautiful, and ate the most delicious fruit I've ever had.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

When we first arrived at the Pacific coast my husband and I did a short exploratory walk down a backroad and came across a small area of water teeming with tiny fish, and expectant and exotic birds. Sitting next to us on an overhanging branch was an exquisit American Pygmy Kingfisher. The most wonderful way to start our holiday

What did you think of your group leader?

We had a great and very fit leader who, as a 25yr. old Amertcan dealing with a variety nationalities other than his own, coped brilliantly. Our group ranged from people in their 30's to us in our 60's but at no time was he intimidated by people senior in years to him. He remained curteous and considerate to all and made decisions easily  without any fuss. He also provided us with a very detailed day to day itinery so that we always knew what to expect. Definately a born leader!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Anyone contemplating this trip ought to have a keen interest in wildlife; and with so many wonderful birds to see I would suggest going armed with 'The birds of Costa Rica' by Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean. We bought a second hand copy cheaply and in excellent condition from a bookseller in Chicargo. Its important to take a range of clothes as we encountered tempretures of 36C on the pacific coast, followed by very cool tempretures in the mountains where I needed to use my drinking bottle as a hot water bottle one night.  On the Carribean coast it continued to pour with rain and although warm we needed very effective waterproofs; however, these were unusual conditions for the time of year we were there, early March. We took a travelling washing line which we used all the time sometimes resorting to the room fans to dry clothes in damp conditions. It saved us a lot of money as laundry bills  were rather high. In order to get fit for this trip we used a turbo bike trainer which worked very well as we were unable to train on our very snowy/muddy/icy lanes in January and Febuary.Which reminds me:+ the roads in Costa Rica are not of the single track variety but much wider and some were often busy with trucks.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is a great trip for anyone of any age who rides a bike!

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

This was an excellent trip.  Although it was hot and humid, which was expected, the riding was great.  Some days longer distances would have been nice, but understandably not possible due to bus transfers and lack of roads to cycle on.  The accommodations were fine and I believe all had AirCon so that was nice.  Not sure it was worth the time to go to Tortuguero but the lodge was nice.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Not sure it could be classified as inspriational but in addition to the rides, all of the non-ride adventures were great.  The river trips viewing birds, the trip to Manual Antonio to view birds, monkeys, and the optional kayak trip on the rest day were just great.  And the side trip to Crazy Robert's was quite entertaining. It is truly amazing the number of birds, monkeys, crocs, etc that one can see in Costa Rica.

What did you think of your group leader?

Brittan was a great leader.  He was always accommodating, knowledgeable in so many aspects of Costa Rica, and just fun to be around.  He always kept us advised of what was happening, what to expect and what to do to have fun.  And Paul, what can one say about Paul....  He is an awsome mechanic, a great rider, and has a playful sense of humor.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take the trip.  Be prepared for some hill climbs in hot weather.  Make sure you like Rice and Beans.  Clothes dry faster in a room with the AirCon on than they do outside:)  Make sure when you pay your $29 departure fee at the airport in CR that you do it with cash not a credit card.  The airport runs it through as a cash advance, not a charge and we and others had to pay an extra 10% but didn't know it until it hit our cards..   Have fun!! Bring a MP3 player or something else to distract you on the long bus rides.......

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Getting ready to do our third trip with Exodus and looking forward to it as the last two trips with Exodus have been great.  Thanks for a great adventure. 

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

I did the Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama trip last year and loved it so much I had to come back. Costa Rica is one of my favourite countries with beautiful scenery, amazing beaches, endless wildlife spotting opportunities and excellent riding. This trip has a good split between time spent cycling and time spent exploring the national parks, beaches, botanical gardens and coffee and pineapple plantations.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting to see so much wildlife including all four monkey species native to Costa Rica and the Red-Eyed Tree Frog. I loved the trip to Manuel Antonio National Park, we were lucky enough to see countless monkeys, birds, lizards and insects. The beaches in Manuel Antonio were the best we visited.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both guides were fantastic, full of energy, fun and enthusiasm, nothing was ever too much hassle. Britten is a born leader, very organised and never phased by any drama. He always made sure we knew exactly what the plans were for each day and went out of his way to make sure everyone enjoyed their holiday.I’m a wuss on fast downhill sections and there was one long steep downhill after I had had a small fall and lost some confidence. Britten encouraged me to do the ride and enjoy the spectacular views even though it must’ve been painfully slow for him being stuck with me at the back. His patience was much appreciated! Pol is an excellent mechanic and guide, always around with a smile and a high five at the end of a tough climb. He is an exceptional rider and encourages everyone to challenge themselves during the trip. You leave with a sense of achievement but with the knowledge that you will never, ever, beat him! :)

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The optional trip to the hot springs in La Fortuna is excellent - some well deserved relaxation and the best piña coladas in Costa Rica! The zoo in Alajuela was much bigger than I expected and was a fun way to spend the last morning. When it rains it RAINS. Keep a spare set of clothes on the bus to change into in case you get soaked - also nice to get changed before the longer transfers. Take binoculars so you don’t miss any monkeys or birds. Take quick drying clothes and a washing line.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The bikes provided are in excellent condition, they are maintained throughout the trip and come with 2 water bottles and a trip computer. There is a constant supply of water, Gatorade, fresh fruit and snacks on the bus - perfect for the really hot days. Another flawless holiday from Exodus and Kevin and his team. Thanks Guys!

COSTA RICA COAST TO COAST RIDE

From coast to coast and everything in between, this tour will give you a pretty full exploration of Costa Rica. The  riding is definately moderate skill level, with 2-4 climbs that will certainly test your lungs, but on the whole is very doable, even in the heat of Central America.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I was simply inspired by my tour guides and my fellow tourists, since we had such a great group of people to hang out with. The guides were knowledgeable and incredibly helpful and made the entire tour for me. As someone without my own biking equipment, it was also reassuring the dedication to quality that they had about keeping the gear in shape (and making some quick repairs right there on the spot, when needed).  

What did you think of your group leader?

Amazing. The group leader made the entire trip for me. I am 100% positive that my entire experience would not have been what it was without him being there and assisting me, sometimes at every step of the way. He was mature, intelligent, thoughtful and overwhelmingly compassionate and helpful. I couldn't say enough positive things.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared, obviously. The heat can be a bit overwhelming on the coasts, but it is a lot cooler in the inland areas. One thing to know is that US dollars are taken everywhere in Costa Rica, so there is no need to change money when you arrive (you can pay in US dollars and they will give you change in local currency -- and it is done on a set rate and isn't a scam).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'm a big fan of Exodus and hope this wasn't my last trip with them. They know their stuff and run responsible and interesting tours. I'd look forward to doing one of their hiking tours or discovery tours next in a heartbeat. Highly recommended.