My First Photography Trip to Costa Rica

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Recently, I was able to fulfill a longtime calling to travel to Costa Rica on a photography trip. The plan came together quickly after I saw a special on airfare direct from Houston to San Jose, Costa Rica. I booked the flight before I even knew where I was staying, what I would be photographing or anything else that might resemble a plan. While this was rather spontaneous and uncharacteristic of me, it also led to one of the greatest photography trips that I have taken. I want to share my experience along with recommendations so that you too can go and enjoy Costa Rica. While I am happy with the pictures that I brought home, they pale in comparison to actually going to Costa Rica and sharing in the experience. I hope to return next year with my family so that everyone can enjoy.

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The Flight to Costa Rica

Did you know that Southwest Airlines flies directly from Houston to San Jose, Costa Rica? When I received an email advertising a special on direct flights from Houston I hopped on the chance and booked my trip. The flight was just as a I come to expect from Southwest Airlines – No extra fees for for your first piece of checked luggage and the same comfort and level of customer service that have become the brand of Southwest Airlines.

The flight from Houston to San Jose, Costa Rica is only 3.5 hours, so before you know you it, you are off on your adventure. A pleasant surprise was that for an extra $8, they offer wifi on the flight!

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Car Rental

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Car Rental in San Jose, Costa Rica

As I was planning my trip, I booked an AirBnb to stay and the host of the AirBnb recommended that I call Marco at Adobe Rent-a-car in San Jose.

I spoke with Marco Sanchez at Adobe Rent-a-car and he helped me find the perfect rental to suit my needs. Being that I was travelling to Costa Rica during the “rainy season,” I decided to go with a four wheel drive vehicle.

Marco arranged for someone to meet me at the airport and take me to their offices once I landed so that I could pickup my car. This was a great convenience because I am not familiar with Costa Rica and saved me a lot of time trying to communicate with a taxi about where I needed to go.

I would also point out that the staff at Adobe Rent-a-car speaks very good english, so calling them to help make arrangements is not difficult at all. I was very relieved because I do not speak much Spanish, definitely not enough to reserve a car.

 

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Beach House

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Perfect Beach House in Costa Rica

As I mentioned before, the host of the AirBnb that I stayed at had recommended where to rent my car and he was very helpful. In addition to that, the beach house that he owns is just this side of heaven. I cannot fully express how beautiful the area of Bejuco, Costa Rica is, but hopefully the picture on the left will give you an idea – it was taken just 100 yards outside my backdoor at the beach house.

I booked Casa Bejuco Ay Bonita on AirBnb and immediately the owner, Bruce, helped me line out the rest of my plans in order to assure that I had a great trip. This place is amazing. I would wake up in the morning, brew my coffee and then walk out the backdoor and watch as the ocean waves rolled in. It was so peaceful, except for when a group a Scarlet Macaws flew into the backyard and were squawking and showing off their beauty. The trees in the backyard are also home to some sloths. I didn’t have to travel anywhere to see sloths in the tree, a homerun. Bejuco is a great area for a visit because it is centered between Jaco and Manuel Antonio National Park. There are a few restaurants and a grocery store, but no crowds, so it is very quiet and relaxing.

The apartment was complete with a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and breakfast area. The bedroom even had air conditioning! Note: For those who have not travelled outside of the United States very much, luxury items such as air conditioning are not guaranteed. I saw that as a huge bonus. Wifi access was also included which was also much appreciated.

The hosts that live on site are from the United States and they were able to give me some great suggestions of where to go during my trip. Thanks to their guidance, I was able to get some incredible shots.

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Rainforest

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Rainmaker Park

One of the hidden gems of the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is Rainmaker Park. The Rainmaker is an opportunity to tour a Rainforest that is in its natural state. I will have to admit that touring Rainmaker Park was a bit challenging for me, but I am happy to say that I made it. Apparently, I am a little bit shaky when it comes to crossing large rope bridges suspended across deep ravines.

On the trail of Rainmaker Park, I was able to see Poison Dart Frogs, waterfalls and the other natural beauties contained in the park. I even got caught in a rainstorm and I experienced why they call it a “Rain Forest.” I was just amazing.

If you plan on going to this park during you trip, I would suggest taking a camelback along with some good hiking boots. The park provides walking sticks to help you on the trails, but just keep in mind that it is a Rainforest, so much of the trail is going to be wet and can be challenging at times. It is completely worth the effort to walk this trail. Admission was $20 and I think I got a great value for my money.

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Costa Rica Photos Gallery

I hope that you will check my Gallery of Photos from my trip to Costa Rica. This was such a wonderfully relaxing trip that I have not been able to stop talking about it since my return. I cannot wait to go back!

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