Selva Encantada An Eco-Friendly Residential Development

South Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica

The south Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is made up of the towns of Limon, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Punta Uva and Manzanillo. All of these towns have sprung up next to the magnificent beaches of the coast. Some towns are more vibrant and upbeat than others. Example, Puerto Viejo is full of restaurants, bars and shops. But in general life is pretty laid back. The expression “Pura Vida” stems from this attitude of “Let go and let flow”.

Surrounding Sites and Activities

Apart from spending a lazy day at the beach, here are some of the activities that can be done:

• Visit the national park of Cahuita where one can see monkeys, sloths and many varieties of birds. Walk along the 7-kilometer trail that extends from the centre of Cahuita to the extremity of Puerto Vargas and enjoy the magnificent beaches and why not do some snorkeling also. The waters around Cahuita have at least 35 coral species and 123 species of fish.
• Visit the wildlife refuge of Manzanillo with its spectacular promontories and beaches. Go for a fishing tour or dolphin watching. Enjoy the local Jamaican cuisine in the village or play soccer on the beach.
• Enjoy a boat trip down the gorgeous Yorkin River and visit the village of Yorkin. Have lunch with an indigenous family and watch how they make chocolate.
• Visit the sloth rehabilitation centre in Penshurt, some 10 kilometers north of Cahuita. Learn more about these gentle creatures; you can even touch them.
• Spend a day at the Volio waterfall in the Bribri Indian reservation. This waterfall measures more than 30 meters tall.
• And if the above is not enough, why not try white water rafting on the Pacuare River, or horseback riding on Playa Negra or glide across the forest top on a canopy in Carbon or in the Braulio Carillo national park.

You can see a full list of tours and activities available in the area at Puerto Viejo Satellite.