We are staying at the FS Papagayo May 30 through June 8th. Will we be able to take day trips to Arenal and Monteverde? From my research, these seem like 2 of the best places to visit and I would hate to not be able to see them. I'm afraid they are too far. Any other suggestions for adventure from Papagayo is welcomed as well. Also, is anyone staying at FS these days? Thanks.

When we stayed at Allegro Papagayo 2 years ago (right next door to FS), we met several people who took those very tours. Catch was, if I remember correctly, both tours were overnighters. And when you're paying for a Four Seasons room, well, gee! But it is certainly do-able. I do think they are both a little too distant for day trips. Perhaps you might choose one! Have fun! The Rincon de la Vieja area is just great for day trips. You might want to consider that. There are hot springs, volcanos, horseback riding, canopy tours, mud baths, lots of good stuff there. . .and very beautiful!

I agree with shillmac.

I have been to Arenal but from San Jose.
My friends in Costa Rica tell me that a day trip from Papagayo is just "too far"
There are tours going there but they are too farunless you stay overnight and then do a bird seeing tour etc.

However the other tour that shillmac stated is very do able and there is another tour that leaves your resort at 6 Am and goes to Nicaragua ..to Granada and the lake region.

This a full all day tour but you are going to see another country for a bit if a different flavour.

If you want to receive information on tours from your resort area , here is the fellow (and his wife Lupita) that do private small group tours.
e-mail to:
[email protected]

Ask Lupita to e-mail you the list of tours and the prices.
Yes they have a tour to Montevedre and yes it is too far.

and yes,like shillmac says,when you stay at the Four Seasons, I do not think you want to pay again for an overnight stay, unless you are really seeing something special.
Anyway e-mail them and get the list and then you can pick the tours that appeal to you.

Percy

Michael, how far is it to Rincon from FS?

That's what I was afraid of. I think 1 day we might try to find a private guide to take us to Monteverde and drive us back at night and skip Arenal. Any sugestions for a guide? I'd really like to see the cloud forest vs the dry forest.

quantum, I wouldn't skip Arenal for Monteverde. Can you manage both? Tabacon Hot Springs in Arenal is nice and its really quite a site to see. The absolute best thing I did in Monteverde was the San Luis waterfall horseback ride and hike. But you can't do it if you are just going to Monteverde for a day. Its also quite a challenging adventure. Good luck with your trip.