250km Coast to Coast Expedition through Costa Rica

From start to finish this was a seamless and professional trip - fantastic guide (thanks Fez), superb itinerary and definitely challenging in all the right places 😁.

Although the elevation and bike climbs were a killer to me, I would consider an ebike and do this all over again! Our guide Fez was a Beast and super attentive to me even though i was so slow. I am already recruiting a group to go back. The food was awesome, waaay better than what i thought you could get while camping.

I had the best time in Costa Rica with MBA. Everything was flawless : our host Rosa, Fez and the support team and the group of lovely and inspiring people that I traveled with. This trip was the perfect amount of challenging and rewarding. Be prepared for a few steep uphills, both hiking and cycling but the views are worth the effort and the group is always supportive. Water shoes are a must and a trek pillow for the camping is strongly advised. No need to pack ton of snacks because the food is really good and nutritious (homemade empanadas at the campsite were delicious! 😋) This trip deserves 5 stars and more!

Honestly a trip of a lifetime. So well organised. Made even more incredible as our guide Dani, his daughter Zoe and Mau were amazing. Can’t recommend enough. One of my all time favourite countries and a group of great people to share the memories and experiences with.

Wow, wow, wow! What an amazing country - and such friendly locals! Absolutely loved this trip. A challenging one, with some pretty tough climbs on foot and cycle, but there was no better way to really bond the group, and the guides were so fantastic, we always knew we were in safe hands and they went the extra mile to make it a great experience for everyone. Thoroughly recommend this trip, but don’t underestimate the fitness levels required if you want to really enjoy it!

The word for this latest adventure might have to be wow…. Wow for the incredible beauty of Costa Rica. Wow for the amazing food - plantains, rice and beans galore. Wow for the incredible guides - every detail of biking, hiking, rafting and kayaking was executed flawlessly. And a final WOW for the difficulty. Every day was a challenge, but day three was particularly difficult when biking over the continental divide. Sound fun? It was!!! I’d turn around and do it all again tomorrow! This was an A+ trip - made A+++ by the absolutely amazing guides. a HUGE shoutout to Christopher (aka Fez) for the great food, abundant laughs, and continuous encouragement. Pura Vita!!!

Was my first trip travelling in a tour and didn't know anyone going so was a bit nervous - but no need to be!! Everyone was so easy to get on with, and you can take the tough days at your own pace (e. g. faster people have longer breaks but not rushing others, or on the big bike day they start later). The elevation at the start of the trip is no joke but it's a great accomplishment and you're with lots of fun like minded people from a wide range of ages. Would highly recommend, you get to see Costa Rica very differently to most tourists! If you want to do this to lose weight though, the food is very yummy and lots of it, so you won't get that outcome! Fez was an amazing guide, if you get him you're in for a treat!! :)

This was the 5th Much Better Adventures trip that I organised for a private group of friends. It is a physically challenging trip, which is good value but does include some very basic camping. The young guide, Josue was the best guide we have ever experienced. If you like mountain biking (much on road), hiking and a challenge, book this trip.

I’m a mid fifties reasonably fit female - the trip is definitely a challenge unless you are an experienced cyclist. (That said it’s been years since I covered much distance or elevation on a bike and I managed. ) The hiking is more doable but also features some spicy hills and the watery parts are just fun fun fun. Enormous encouragement from the group and the guides. Enormous sense of achievement. The planning and implementation of the whole trip is impeccable. Equipment, supplies, food (you will never be hungry. It’s not allowed ☺️), logistics…all just work - even when the weather throws a curve ball. Costa Rica is stunning - an amazing backdrop for an adventure but the trip is made by the guides. Fez and Jeffrey supported by Darwin, Vito and Erik quickly shaped us into a cohesive, supportive, inclusive group of magnificent humans - despite being different ages, nationalities andfitness levels. Fez has a big loud voice, a warm sense of humour and an affectionate manner that rubbed off on everyone and set the tone for a great holiday. At no time do you feel like a herd of tourists…Fez went to some lengths to accommodate individual needs and make sure everyone had a good time. All in all - if you are fit enough- do it! And if not - then get fit enough. This one shouldn’t be missed.

Brilliantly organised trip full of incredible sights, I'd recommend this trip to anyone!

This was a trip of many first for me! First trip outside Europe, first time solo travelling, first time rafting! I was looking to get out of my comfort zone, to push myself physically and mentally, and this trip delivered exactly that! It was the perfect way to discover this beautiful country, away from the crowded spots. It was certainly challenging at times! But our amazing guide Manuel was always there with positive and encouraging words. The organisation was great, the food was always tasty and plentiful. Our group naturally bonded very quickly and everyone was always super supportive of each other.

I would highly recommend this trip and wish I could do it all over again!

Without a doubt one of the best trips I have done. Not easy at times but hugely rewarding when you kayak around the bend and see the Caribbean in front of you.

Our guide Josue made this trip a brilliant experience, with his knowledge of the area and support for everyone, plus he's a great chef, keeping us well fuelled in the jungle.

The sights, sounds and interactions with all that Costa Rica had to offer, alongside an amazing group made this a top memory maker for me.

Would highly recommend for anyone looking to explore Costa Rica. If you are looking for a trip to challenge you and deliver a sense of satisfaction when you make it to the end, this is for you!

Wow, what a trip! I've been lucky enough to do have a number of adventures in my life, but this was by far the best experience I've had. Just an incredible trip in a beautiful country. Our guide Dani was incredible and really helped to bond the team through some challenging parts, whilst always making it a lot of fun. I can't recommend this trip enough!

What a journey through the center of Costa Rica. Im 60 years old I wouldn't say I was extremely fit probably just a little over average. I found this trip truly amazing. We had 9 in our group which was a great size. The guide Manuel amazing. The trip does exactly what it say Bike Hike and Raft across Costa Rica. Some days are hard, Day 2 and 3 I found the hardest but defiantly doable. I would highly recommend this trip and will do others with MBA in the future

Would highly recommend this adventure. A fantastic trip with a great group and world class guides. Perfect blend of challenging exercise, downtime and spectacular landscape. Our guide Josue was an absolute superstar!

This 250km coast-to-coast adventure through Costa Rica with Much Better Adventures was hands down one of the most incredible trips I’ve ever been on. From the Pacific to the Caribbean, we hiked, biked, rafted, and kayaked through some of the most stunning landscapes imaginable—cloud forests, mountain villages, and wild rainforests bursting with wildlife. Every day brought a new challenge, but also a fresh sense of accomplishment and awe at the beauty of Costa Rica.

The mix of activities kept things exciting and constantly pushed us in the best way possible. Cycling through lush valleys, trekking up into misty forests, battling the rapids of the Pacuare River, and finally paddling our way to the Caribbean—it was a true test of endurance but also an unforgettable way to experience the country. The food was another highlight. Every meal was full of fresh, local flavors, giving us all the energy we needed for the next day’s adventure.

A huge shoutout has to go to our guide, Josué, who made the trip even more special. His knowledge of the area, infectious enthusiasm, and ability to keep us moving and motivated made all the difference.

The mix of accommodations, from hotels to eco-camps by the river, added to the adventure. Falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest was an experience in itself. This wasn’t just a trip; it was an epic journey that tested our limits, brought us closer to nature, and left us with memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s as rewarding as it is challenging, this is it!

It was a privilege to be shown Costa Rica by Manuel, Mau, Abel and the rest of the team. Their organisation, humour, cooking & warmth was wonderful. We had a fun group with lots of giggles. Thanks fam. The wildlife, the people, the landscape, the adventure was unforgettable.

The day before I left for this trip I was feeling all the nerves. What would it be like? Would I like the other people in my group, would they like me?! Was I fit enough? What would Costa Rica be like? I repacked my bag for the 15th time and reread every review of this trip, I took a deep breath and got on a plane. Thank goodness I did! This trip was simply INCREDIBLE. Every single day was a joy to take part in and it always started with phenomenal coffee (well you are in Costa Rica). The people in our group were fantastic from day one and it was such a pleasure to undertake this adventure with them, big love to them all. Our trip lead Fez was brilliant. I still miss being told what to pack in my transition bag everyday or that breakfast is ready! He made the trip that extra bit special with his warmth and generosity of his time and all his many stories about his country. Every day was an adventure whether hiking up into the cloud forest or biking through villages or down steep dirt tracks. Always moving forward from one coast to the other and taking everything in at a slow pace (apart from on some of those downhills!). Camping in the jungle was an awesome experience falling asleep to the sound of the river and everything else getting getting busy in the world behind your tent. Rafting was some of the most fun I’ve ever had on the water, it felt like being 14 again and having proper fun in a boat with your mates! We hiked to a waterfall one day and we were all sitting around on rocks chatting, laughing and swimming, we were all that happy tired when you’ve worked hard at something and you’re relaxing afterwards, I looked around at the group in this most beautiful little setting by a waterfall and thought - do days actually get any better than this?! The food was perfect and kept us fuelled everyday for whatever activity we had coming up, loved our floating picnic on the river too. You do need to be fit to take this on. You are hiking and biking everyday for several hours and to really enjoy it and get the most out of the adventure being able to walk and ride is important, but you don’t need to have won an Ironman (unless that’s your bag)! Be prepared to rediscover your sense of adventure, be prepared to come back and not shut up about where you’ve been and all the things you’ve done and be prepared to fall in love with a country and its people. You’ll have the time of your life, I did! Pura Vida!

This trip was truly incredible and worth every penny! As a solo traveler in my 30s, it was not only my first solo trip but also my first time joining an organized group adventure – and it exceeded all my expectations.

Pre-Trip Communication

The communication with MBE was excellent. Having a WhatsApp group to connect with the guide and other group members beforehand was incredibly helpful. The in-person welcome and introduction were thorough, answering any questions I might have had and putting me at ease right away.

Daily Activities

The itinerary was well-balanced with a mix of cycling and hiking. The transitions between activities were seamless, and clear packing instructions ensured everything was well-prepared. Support vehicles carried the main luggage, bikes, day bags, water, and snacks, making it all hassle-free.

The days felt varied and exciting, and within just a few hours, the group bonded as if we’d known each other for ages. It was a lovely mix of like-minded people from different walks of life and age groups. Special shout-out to Rosie, Ren, and Laura for making the experience even more memorable!

Physical Challenges

I found the all-day cycling and technical downhill MTB sections challenging – but in a good way! If you have a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure, you’ll find the physical side of the trip entirely manageable and rewarding.

Food

As highlighted in so many reviews, the food was phenomenal. Homemade, fresh, varied, and always plentiful – I often helped myself to second plates for both breakfast and dinner. Lunches alternated between restaurant stops and picturesque picnics. A big highlight was hearing Fez call, “Dinner’s ready!” – a moment I’ll genuinely miss.

Accommodation

The accommodations were great and far exceeded my expectations. Even the “rough” camping felt comfortable, with tents set up in community centers offering running water and power. The river camping days were particularly stunning, and the hotels were perfectly fine for the trip’s needs.

The Experience

Traveling from coast to coast, meeting locals, visiting places far off the tourist trail, and contributing to the local economy were all highlights. The scenery, wildlife, and stunning views were unforgettable. It was a relief to focus purely on the adventure while the logistics and planning were expertly handled.

The Team

Saving the best for last: the team! Fez and the support crew were absolutely 10/10. They made the experience feel effortless with their exceptional leadership, friendly banter, and incredible attention to detail. From logistics to food, bike maintenance to first aid, everything was handled flawlessly. Fez, in particular, was outstanding, and I cannot praise him enough.

Final Thoughts

A massive thank-you to everyone involved for creating such a fantastic trip full of lifetime memories.

Pro Tip: The kit list is spot-on, but I’d recommend adding a blow-up pillow or something similar for extra comfort.

If you’re considering this trip, do it!

This was my first MBA (and group) trip! To anyone who is unsure about whether to book, it is 100% worth taking the leap and going for it - I cannot say enough positive things about the trip!

The logistics were seamless down to every tiny detail. The activities were challenging as promised, but rest stops/snacks were well-timed (Memo's crispy cassava chips and dips at the end of one day's activities were a particular highlight)! The food in general was incredible - the team put so much effort into ensuring that you will never go hungry and the vegetarian options were always delicious.

Special thanks to the guides - Memo, Vito, Dixon, Alejandro (whose diligent biscuit crushing skills were much appreciated on cheesecake night!) and, last but not least, Fez, our lead guide, who is a credit to the Coast to Coast team and made everyone feel in the safest of hands - Fez's unflappable leadership (and persistence in going above and beyond to source a suprise birthday cake) was a key part of making the trip as great as it was.

The accomodation was always comfortable - the "rough" camping nights were far nicer than normal camping experiences and the El Nido del Tigre site (where you stay for 2 nights on the trip and spend a lot of time lounging in hammocks!) was a peaceful oasis in the middle of the jungle - most of the group had the best sleeps of the trip there.

Our group included a mix of ages/ nationalities and everyone was so positive and supportive towards each other. I usually travel alone and I really enjoyed the group dynamic - being around such an adventurous group of people was very motivating and we also had a lot of fun playing card games at the campsites!

A reasonable level of fitness is helpful to be able to enjoy the activities, and I'd suggest doing some hill cycling as preparation, but you definitely don't need to be Olympian-level! The rafting days ended up being my favourite and the river guides were brilliant.

A few tips:

• Padded cycling shorts! An essential item as you spend a lot of time in the saddle. Two pairs is probably ideal.
• Many dry bags - a few to keep things dry and more to keep wet things separate!
• Water shoes were very helpful to avoid wet trainers. Cheap ones from Amazon worked well.
• A camping pillow is another essential.
• You don't need that many clothes as there are a couple of opportunities for laundry.
• Bring cards/games and a book for the rest day.

All in all, an incredible way to spend the New Year and this will definitely not be my last MBA trip!

Thank you Fez and your team for a lifetime experience. I’ve learned a lot from this trip, from practical lessons abt nature, swimming in trouble waters to more deep personal feelings about life. Best New Year celebrations with a wonderfull group of friends. Smooth but firmly managed by Fez, we’ve biking, hiking, rafting and cayac, yes, it’s a bit challenging but everyone arrived well at the end. Highly recommended !

If you are considering this trip, book it.

Cannot fault the trip at all, the guide Fez was an absolute superstar, and the rest of the crew managed all the logistics and everything perfectly.

You will not go hungry at all, the activities are tough (especially the biking on the hills and some of the dirt roads), but manageable and there is always support vehicles nearby on the bike in case of any mechanicals or anything.

The trip undersells itself I would argue, especially in terms of accommodation, the El Nidro del Tigre campsite is stunning and the perfect place for the rest day (which can include a waterfall walk and a swim in Pacuare).

Quick drying kit, padded shorts and long tops and legging type trousers would be recommended.

Once again the group on an MBA trip were amazing and everyone was super friendly and supportive.

Final shout out to the rafting which was absolutely stunning.

We just completed the coast to coast in a group of 14 people, mostly unrelated to each other, including people from the UK, Australia, Scandinavia and Romania. Terrific group.

Do not underestimate the cycling! There are some grueling uphill sections that seemed to be a breeze for the enthusiastic cyclists but very difficult for those of us with limited cycling experience.

The whitewater rafting is world class.

Guide (Fez) is outstanding.

We elected to spend our honeymoon crossing Costa Rica with Much Better Adventures and we had the most amazing time. The country is stunning, so diverse and full of interesting wildlife. We had the best guides you could ask for: Fez, Memo, Jeffrey, and Darwin, who are not only great ambassadors for their country, but helped to create a great group dynamic despite the mixed experience and ages. So even when the cycling was challenging or when we had an unexpected swim in the Pacuare River, they were able to manage our (fraught!) emotions and ensure we were able to finish each challenge. It also helps that they are all great cooks - while the rice and beans were in plentiful supply, they were always able to shake things up with surprise jungle starters and desserts.

The rafting and El Nido camps were particular highlights, but all of the accommodation was better than we expected, even the "rough" camping. The kit list is helpful but we would suggest MANY dry-bags - though don't expect anything to actually stay dry.

A very satisfying and hugely enjoyable adventure hiking, biking, rafting, and kayaking between the pacific ocean and caribbean sea through forests, mountains, villages, rivers, beaches and waterfalls.

The wildlife is incredible, and the serene beauty of falling asleep and being woken in the mornings by the sound of the river, birds, insects, monkeys and other creatures is very special.

Dani, Jeffery, Memo and the rest of the team were incredible at supplying food, logistics and entertaining information. Being with a good spirited group added to the fun.

You will need quick drying kit, TEVA like sandals, mosquito repellent (for parts) combined with light-weight long sleeves/trousers and helpful to have cash USD/Colón. A good dry bag (it sure can rain in the rainforest!), but also sunscreen and a good hat to keep the sun off. Practice biking up hills and brush up on kayaking.

It was the best of times. 100% recommend. Pura Vida.

Coast to coast was an unbelievable adventure almost entirely off the beaten path. Our guide Dani and the rest of the team were incredible along every step, pedal and stroke of the way! Sharing their passion for Costa Rica and its natural environment, they were always knowledgeable and helpful, going above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience. In summary…Amazing scenery, amazing food, and amazing people to share the journey with. Be ready for a few challenging days in there but they are totally worth it.

When I went to book this trip I opened the website maybe 20 times. On the last look I read a review that said "just book it". The best advice. . so I second that just book it. Its worth the money. I don't know how I could top this trip. Recommendations:

1. If you are going in the rainy season or the tail ends of it bring a waterproof bag to keep your wet clothes in. They will not dry!!
2. Two rain coats was helpful
3. Bug spray was necessary
4. Train long road bike sessions uphill

Excellent all round- highly recommend !

Some things I loved about this trip

• A thrown together bunch of all ages who really gelled by the end of the trip!
• Never being hungry. We were so well fed, and particularly when the crew cooked - some delicious camping dinners and breakfasts. If you even dared to think 'I might need a snack soon' then something would appear before you needed it.
• Falling asleep to the sounds of the river and rainforest. The rest day camp is a real highlight.
• Rafting down some excellent rapids.
• Being the the most wet I have ever been in tropical rain - it was hilariously heavy rain on some days. But it's warm and you get used to it!

The trip requires a decent fitness level, but the crew do everything possible to ensure it's achievable for everyone. There were plenty of regroups, and both faster and slower members were usually allowed to go at their own comfortable speed between these.

A big thanks to our Guide Fez - he was absolutely excellent and alongside the rest of his crew ensured we were well looked after at all times! Pura Vida!

What a great trip - biking, hiking, kayaking and rafting from coast to coast. A special thank you to our guide, Joseu, whose smile and positive attitude throughout the trip always kept us going!