Zapotal de Miramar

You find this unique and authentic destination on top of a mountain. From the beach near the town of Puntarenas, you drive via a narrow mountain road all the way up to Zapotal de Miramar. Do not forget the stop once in a while to enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific and the beaches, islands and sugar plantations near Puntarenas.

Once you arrive in the charming village of Zapotal de Miramar, you will find only 200 people living here, mainly from agriculture. Your help is always welcome and the locals take you on an unforgettable journey in the country side of Costa Rica.

Authentic homestay
Traditional Costa Rican meals
Amazing views
Not touristy

Stay with locals in Costa Rica

In Zapotal you will stay with locals of Costa Rica. You can stay in simple cabins, but the best thing is to experience a homestay with one of the local families. You will receive a warm welcome and will be assigned your own bedroom and bathroom. Meals are prepared by your host family and you all eat together.

When staying in Zapotal, one activity or tour is included in your stay. You can take a cooking class for example or help at the organic farm. You can also explore the beautiful surroundings of the village by foot. In addition, it is also possible to make traditional `Trapiche`: this is the process of making cane sugar and the so-called `tapa de dulce`, a sweet drink that all Costaricans love. With the aid of oxen, the cane sugar is pressed and afterwards, the juice is cooked in a large pot. This is a unique opportunity to experience and help with a true Costarican tradition!

Although the air in Zapotal the Miramar might be fresh, this stay certainly will feel like a warm bath of hospitality and friendship. If you want to experience the real Costa Rican ‘Pura Vida’, then this trip is your perfect choice!

This destination is part of your tailor made Edventure through Costa Rica.

Tip from Anouk:

Tip from Anouk:

In Zapotal, tourism is still quite new. However, the villagers are used to receiving students and volunteers from all over the world. These visitors certainly do not all speak Spanish, and the host families hardly speak English, but with your hands, feet and especially a big smile, you can certainly make yourself understandable. Google Translate or any other translation app or book can also be of great help! 😉

I am convinced that your stay in Zapotal will be unforgettable!

The following destinations are close to this travel package:

Turtles on the beach of Junquillal

Junquillal is a charming coastal town and a real 'off the beaten track' location. Your Dutch hosts warmly welcome you to the paradise they built themselves and all you need to do here is to relax, indulge and enjoy the great food! If you want to leave your hammock, the town is a perfect base to explore the coastal region with its beautiful beaches. Or visit the Junquillal turtle conservation, to learn more about the turtles on the beach.

The underwater world and white beaches of Sámara

Sámara is a small coastal village with a laidback, relaxed atmosphere. There's a wide variety of hotels, restaurants and bars. The beach is always nearby and the quiet bay with a beautiful coral reef is a must for snorkel lovers. In conclusion, Sámara beach is also a great destination for families.

Soar beyond the cloud forest of Monteverde

Monteverde is famous for its unique cloud forest reserve. The village lies in the mountains and is one of the few places in Costa Rica where you can still spot the beautiful quetzal. While in Monteverde you can explore the cloud forest by foot or hanging bridge, but also book a zipline tour and soar beyond the trees, a great experience!

Magical blue waterfalls in Bijagua

Bijagua is a charming village near the river Rio Celeste and the Tenorio National Park. The river was named after the intense blue colour of its water. Take your time hiking up to the beautiful waterfall in the jungle and explore the area by horseback or mountain bike. You stay in a comfortable bungalow with great view of the volcano.

Discover volcano Arenal from La Fortuna

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Added to your suitcase

Zapotal de Miramar

Stay with locals in Costa Rica

Stay with locals in Costa Rica

Atmosphere impression

Tip from Anouk:

Tip from Anouk:

The following destinations are close to this travel package: