Unlike Guatemala's Tikal or the Incan ruins of Peru, Costa Rica tours are not exactly famous for their archaeological history. But veiled in the shadow of the Turrialba Volcano - like a mythical "lost city" from a storybook - lies a mysterious ancient city that was home to over 10,000 people who seemed to have vanished just before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. This region, known as Guayabo National Monument, is the most important archaeological site visited on Costa Rica tours.
Although it lacks the towering pyramids of Tikal or Machu Picchu, Guayabo does not lack for mystery or intrigue. Little is known about the inhabitants of this region; archaeologists have yet to discover even the name of the city and its inhabitants. Excavations began in 1968 by Dr. Carlos Aquilar Piedra, an archaeologist from the University of Costa Rica. But within the 218 hectares of this national monument, only 10% of the site has been excavated. With all its mystery, with all its uncertainty, Guayabo is a perfect place for imaginations to run wild during Costa Rica tours.
Who were these early residents of Costa Rica? We can only piece together their history through the clues they left behind. Paved stone roads stretch into the surrounding forest for miles. Was trading part of their economical structure? After 2500 years, the carefully designed aqueducts lined with tiny stones to filter drinking water are still usable today. Were they a community of engineers? Tombs are found throughout the site. Was religion a prevalent part of the society's structure? Tapering wooden houses once sat on the remnants of rock-based foundations of different size and proportion. Were they a democratic culture - a chiefdom? Evidence suggests they were a people of great religious and political importance, but details on their civilization have yet to be uncovered.
Costa Rica tours to this area also showcase a breathtaking display of wildlife. Colorful butterflies and a spectacular variety of birds populate Guayabo today. Sloths, armadillos, rabbits, frogs, and lizards find shelter in the dense foliage of the surrounding rainforest. Ferns and orchids can also be spotted on a peaceful walk along the ancient roads and pathways. Adventure Life's new 10-day Discover Costa Rica tours give you the opportunity to visit this remarkable and mystifying place.
Petroglyphs are everywhere. Some represent birds, lizards and giant cats, while others appear to have no clear meaning. Enhancing Guayabo's secrecy, these ancient and abstract carvings continue to baffle archaeologists today. Travelers on Costa Rica tours should look for the petroglyph at the entrance of the site. It seems to protect Guayabo, keeping danger out. Or perhaps it is welcoming you in, an invitation into Costa Rica's rich and mysterious history. Guayabo still has much to reveal and much to discover.
What made our Costa Rica experience great was the wonderful places we stayed and transportation to get to our different areas to visit was excellent! The white water rafting and the snorkeling & dolphin watching were really fun!
Michell Murphy
2 weeks ago
Adventure Life took care of everything! All we had to do was show up when we were supposed to, which made our first trip to Costa Rica largely stress-free and incredibly fun. Our trip reps, Hannah and Mariethony, were helpful and responsive, getting back to us by email usually within a few hours. Our accommodations were all great, and we got incredibly blessed with some absolutely stellar guides and drivers.
Our Jungle & Beach trip was an excellent balance of adventure and rest. We got to try out a lot of different activities, including snorkeling, hiking, white water rafting and kayaking, while also partaking of some rest around the pool or by the ocean. We enjoyed seeing and exploring the beautiful Caribbean side of the country.
Joy Knowles
3 weeks ago
The company made our adventure trip hassle-free, and a lot of fun! I will definitely be using them again
Carolena F
1 month ago
For our first trip to Costa Rica, Adventure Life designed a tour that meets the interests, ecological and adventure, of our party; but also takes into account our physical limitations sine we are all septuagenarian. We are looking forward to the trip.
John Zent
1 month ago
COSTA RICA a trip of a life time travelling round this beautiful country. All went like clockwork even when the weather was against us and all transfers seemed to be part of the holiday not a chore. Would definitely use Adventure Life again having previously used them 20 years ago!!