Unforgettable Journeys with Why Karla Taylor

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Private - $230

Single - $90

Group - $80

Duration - approx. 2 hours

Experience the captivating world of birdwatching amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Our early morning tour begins at six o'clock, offering a serene start to your day as we embark on a two-hour exploration of this pristine sanctuary.

Led by a passionate naturalist guide with an extensive understanding of local bird species, our journey unfolds along flat terrain, following the edges of roads and venturing into the heart of the refuge's wilderness. Along the way, we'll traverse landscapes that border farms, providing a diverse backdrop for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Throughout the excursion, keep your senses attuned to the sights and sounds of the avian inhabitants that grace this refuge. From the vibrant hues of toucans to the graceful flight of herons, each sighting offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the rich birdlife of the southern Caribbean.

As we delve deeper into the refuge, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the behaviors and habitats of the birds we encounter, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of these winged wonders. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a newcomer to the world of birdwatching, our tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Private - N/A

Individual - $40

Group - $30

Duration - approx. 2 hours

Indulge in an authentic Caribbean culinary experience with our home-hosted lunch. Delight your taste buds with traditional Caribbean cuisine crafted from exotic staples, lovingly prepared using family recipes passed down through generations. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of a Caribbean Costa Rican family as you share stories and savor the flavors of their home-cooked delights. Join us for a memorable meal that offers a taste of true Caribbean hospitality and a warm welcome into the heart of our community. 

Private - $300

Individual - $125

Group - $110

Duration - approx. 3.5 hours

 Discover the untamed beauty of the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge on our guided walk to Punta Mona, a journey that promises to immerse you in the wonders of Costa Rica's coastal paradise.   

Starting at the refuge's entrance, our adventure begins along a serene, flat path that meanders parallel to the coastline.

As you traverse the trail, immerse yourself in the natural splendor surrounding you, with abundant flora and fauna to behold. The initial stretch of the trail offers gentle terrain, ensuring a leisurely stroll for all participants.

Along the route, we'll pause at a local viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas of the refuge's coastal beauty. Then, as the trail unfolds, it gradually transitions into a more undulating path, leading you on a fascinating exploration through lush rainforest landscapes.

The duration of the walk to Punta Mona typically spans two to three hours, allowing ample time to absorb the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Upon reaching Punta Mona, you'll be treated to refreshing beverages and fresh fruit, providing a delightful interlude before continuing your journey.

To conclude the tour, a traditional Panga boat awaits to ferry you back to the village of Manzanillo, offering a scenic cruise along the coastline. Please note that this tour requires a minimum of six participants to operate.

With a total duration of approximately three and a half to four hours, our guided walk to Punta Mona promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the pristine beauty of the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.

Private - $150

Individual- $55

Group - $45

Duration - approx. 2 hours

Join us for an evening of discovery and adventure as we venture into the realm of the night, where every step brings you closer to the magic of Costa Rica's nocturnal world. Embark on an enchanting nocturnal adventure with our guided night walk through the lush surroundings of our beautiful garden, nestled alongside an adjacent secondary forest. Led by the esteemed local guide, Fernando Davis, this captivating tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the mysteries of Costa Rica's nighttime wildlife.

Lasting approximately 1.5 to two hours, our night walk promises an unforgettable experience as you encounter a diverse array of nocturnal creatures. From elusive bats and slithering snakes to the abundant chorus of frogs, along with glimpses of mammals and birds, each moment offers a fascinating insight into the nocturnal ecosystem.

Under Fernando's expert guidance, you'll unravel the secrets of the night as you explore the hidden wonders of the garden and surrounding forest. With his wealth of knowledge and keen eye for spotting wildlife, you're sure to witness extraordinary sights and sounds that will leave you in awe.

Private - $250

Single - $80

Group - $65

Minimum Pax - 4

Maximum Pax - 12

Duration - approx. 2 hours

Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Caribbean with our Cooking Class at Taylor Place in Tortuguero, a delightful and informative experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Led by the charismatic local chef, Ray Taylor, this hands-on cooking class offers a unique blend of Caribbean cuisine infused with international flair.

Set within the charming surroundings of Taylor's Place, nestled in a tranquil corner of Tortuguero Village amidst lush tropical gardens, you'll embark on a culinary journey unlike any other. Ray will guide you through the preparation of his personal recipes, sharing insights into his culinary adventures and the fusion of flavors inspired by his travels around the world.

During the two-hour class, you'll have the opportunity to roll up your sleeves and get involved in the cooking process, learning valuable techniques and tips from Ray himself. As you chop, sauté, and simmer, you'll discover how local herbs from Taylor's own garden enhance the flavors of each dish, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to Caribbean classics.

But the best part? You'll have the chance to sample the delicious creations you've prepared, savoring the harmonious blend of Caribbean spices and international influences. From savory seafood dishes to delectable desserts, each bite is a celebration of Tortuguero's rich culinary heritage and Ray's passion for cooking.

Private - $175

Individual - $35

Group - $30

 Experience the vibrant Caribbean culture of the fishing village of Manzanillo with our cozy homestay. Share space with a local family and truly immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyle of this charming community nestled at the southern tip of the Caribbean coast. Discover the warmth of Caribbean hospitality and create lasting memories as you live, learn, and connect with the rhythms of daily life in Manzanillo. 

Your hosts Karla and Harold first met in 1992, in Manzanillo, a charming fishing village in Limón, Costa Rica, nestled in the Southern Caribbean. At the time, Karla was promoted to be the resident Parataxonomist of the Gandoca Manzanillo Mixed Wildlife Refuge while working for INBio, a scientific institute responsible for the national inventory of species such as insects, plants, and freshwater mollusks. During her stay and while collecting data on species, she crossed paths with Harold, known as Taku in his town. Taku, originally from Changuinola, Panama, was raised in Manzanillo. As a young man from the area, he and his closest friends formed a strong connection with the young Parataxonomist, leading to a friendship that endured for many years.

After more than two decades, Karla and Taku reunited, each with their own past, ready to embark on a new chapter together. Karla had been involved in tourism for over 25 years with the vision of an entrepreneur, while Taku, after residing in San Francisco, California for a little over twenty years, returned to his childhood town, where his maternal family resides, now calling it home.

Manzanillo Hidden Place was the first project started with Taku, a sustainable lodging house—a welcoming, safe, and tranquil haven nestled close to the beach and surrounded by nature. With enthusiasm and dedication, they aim to host guests and foster connections within their community, striving to provide authentic and memorable experiences. In addition to entrepreneurship, Taku has an immense passion for fishing, while Karla, with her forward-thinking vision, seeks to create artisanal experiences and lasting memories for their guests.

Private - $175

Single - $50

Group - $40

Duration - approx. 2 hours

Indulge your senses in the art of chocolate making with our immersive chocolate workshop at Alma Verde Garden, led by the esteemed local expert, Fernando Davis. Renowned for his vast knowledge of tropical and medicinal plants, Fernando brings a wealth of experience in cocoa cultivation and chocolate production to this unforgettable experience.

Set amidst the lush surroundings of Fernando's family-owned cocoa plantation, the workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the origins and history of chocolate. Delve into the fascinating journey from cocoa seed pods to delectable chocolate treats as you learn about the intricate processes involved in chocolate production.

Over the course of approximately two hours, you'll be guided through each step of the chocolate-making process in a charming dining room, nestled within a tropical garden paradise. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the cocoa plantation as you sample freshly harvested cocoa beans and discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect chocolate.

From the harvesting and fermentation of cocoa beans to the grinding and tempering of chocolate, Fernando will share insights and techniques passed down through generations. Gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved indulgence as you savor the fruits of your labor, surrounded by the beauty of tropical plants and gardens.

Private - $150

Single - $50

Group - $40

Duration - approx. 2 hours

 Experience the magic of coastal exploration with our Manzanillo Ocean Kayak and Estuary Exploration tour, a two-hour journey that promises an unforgettable blend of wildlife observation and coastal exploration. Your expedition begins in the tranquil waters of a blackwater estuary, where you'll embark on a quest to discover the diverse array of wildlife that calls this pristine ecosystem home.

Led by our experienced guide, you'll paddle through the winding waterways, keeping a keen eye out for glimpses of exotic birds, playful monkeys, and other fascinating creatures that inhabit the mangroves and lush vegetation along the estuary banks. As you navigate through the mysterious black waters, you'll learn about the unique characteristics of this ecosystem and its importance in supporting local biodiversity.

Continuing your journey, the estuary seamlessly merges with the crystal-clear waters of the ocean, offering a breathtaking transition as you paddle into serene and tranquil surroundings. Here, you'll have the opportunity to observe the vibrant coral reef and perhaps even encounter unexpected marine species that inhabit these coastal waters.

Throughout the excursion, our guide will provide insightful nature interpretation, highlighting the coastal vegetation and rocky formations that characterize the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. As you paddle along, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the refuge's rugged coastline and pristine natural landscapes.

With the tour lasting approximately two hours, you'll have ample time to soak in the beauty of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the wonders of this coastal paradise. 

Private - $180

Single - $45

Group - $35

 Discover the wonders of Nature Wellness in Manzanillo. Immerse yourself in the healing essence of the forest through immersive Forest Therapy sessions. Learn about healthy eating practices and the uses of medicinal plants in a hidden garden. Join us for a rejuvenating journey that harmonizes mind, body, and spirit amidst the tranquil beauty of nature. 

Private - $140

Individual - $65

Group - $55

Duration - approx. 1.5 hours

Dive into the mesmerizing depths of the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge with our captivating snorkeling experience. Renowned for its stunning coral reef, this refuge boasts the finest marine ecosystem in the southern Caribbean.

Led by a local expert, your snorkeling adventure unveils the vibrant colors and rich marine life inhabiting these pristine waters. Explore the untouched coral reef, hailed as the region's best, and encounter a diverse array of tropical fish and captivating sea creatures.

Lasting approximately one hour and thirty minutes, our tour includes all the essentials for a seamless experience. From top-quality snorkeling gear to refreshing snacks, fruits, and water, we ensure your comfort and enjoyment every step of the way

Private - $200

Individual - $100

Group - $75

Duration - approx. 1:15 hours

Your journey to Sixaola, the border between Costa Rica and Panama, begins with a scenic transfer lasting approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. En route, you'll traverse through lush landscapes adorned with various banana plantations and diverse crops. As you approach the quaint town of Ola, you'll catch glimpses of local stores, supermarkets, and a bustling commercial area, where Costa Ricans often flock to take advantage of the lower prices available on the Panamanian side.

This transfer originates from your location in Puerto Viejo, Manzanillo, or Punta Cocles, taking around one hour and twenty minutes to reach Sixaola. Upon arrival, your driver will guide you to the immigration office, ensuring a smooth transition for your border crossing experience.

Private - $360

Individual - $90

Group - $80

Duration - approx. 6 hours

Venture on a cultural journey into the heart of Costa Rica's indigenous heritage with our Bribri Community Experience. The Bribri people, one of the eight tribes native to Costa Rica, reside in the picturesque county of Talamanca, nestled along the border with Panama. Venturing into their communities offers a unique opportunity to forge personal connections with the Bribri and gain insight into their rich cultural traditions.

As stewards of their ancestral knowledge, the Bribri warmly welcome visitors into their midst, eager to share their customs and way of life. By engaging with visitors, they reaffirm the importance of preserving their language and traditions for future generations to cherish.

During this immersive six-hour experience, you'll journey from your location to Talamanca, where you'll be transported to a riverside embarkation point. From there, you'll board a cayuco, a traditional canoe, accompanied by your local guide and a Bribri leader who will navigate you to their community.

Upon arrival, you'll be enveloped in the warm hospitality of the Bribri as they guide you through their daily routines and subsistence practices. Learn about their deep connection to Mother Nature and the significance of the herbs and plants that sustain them. Witness the traditional process of chocolate-making, a staple of Bribri culture, and gain insight into the importance of this cherished tradition.

Throughout the experience, you'll have the opportunity to engage with community members, ask questions, and immerse yourself in their vibrant way of life. By the end of your visit, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the resilience, wisdom, and cultural richness of the Bribri people.

Join us for an unforgettable journey of discovery as we venture into the heart of the Bribri community, where every moment offers a deeper understanding of their enduring heritage and traditions. A traditional meal prepared by the natives is included.