Adventure in Costa Rica: Powered by Good Coffee & Epic Nature

There’s nothing better for me as a trip host than watching women dive headfirst into adventure and culture — and that’s exactly what happened on our Women Who Explore trip to Costa Rica! For one incredible week, we experienced the best of “Pura Vida” living through wildlife encounters, thrilling outdoor adventures, and plenty of meaningful connections.

Mornings in the Jungle

Our days started early with the jungle itself as our alarm clock. (Howler monkeys and birdsong should seriously be a Costa Rican sound machine option!) Over mugs of rich, locally grown coffee, we relaxed by the pool, spotting toucans overhead and monkeys leaping through the trees.

One morning, I led a jungle-inspired yoga session. We moved through gentle poses while meditating to the sounds of nature all around us — the perfect grounding before a day of adventure.

Wildlife Around Every Corner

The wildlife encounters never stopped. On our guided tour through Manuel Antonio National Park, we spotted sloths, monkeys, lizards, and tropical birds before swimming at the park’s pristine beach. Even our taxi driver joined in on the fun, taking us on a detour to see a sloth hanging on the power lines! Costa Rica is truly wild in the best way.

Jungle Thrills

Our zip-lining and rappelling adventure pushed us to new limits — and reminded us why Women Who Explore trips are so special. With plenty of encouragement and laughter, we cheered each other on through every leap and climb. The highlight? A heart-pounding “monkey drop” straight into the water that left us screaming, laughing, and high-fiving at the end.

Sunset Conversations & Fresh Flavors

Every evening in Costa Rica was all about connection. We gathered over fresh seafood, cold drinks, and unforgettable sunsets. Sharing stories, replaying our day’s adventures, and simply enjoying each other’s company became as memorable as the activities themselves.

Whitewater on the Savegre River

Rafting the Savegre River was another highlight of the trip. From the first splash through the rapids, our boats were filled with equal parts water and laughter. The river was serene and uncrowded, giving us the rare chance to feel completely immersed in nature. We swam under waterfalls, floated alongside our rafts, and ended the day exhausted but glowing.

The Rainforest After Dark

With headlamps on and an incredible guide leading the way, we ventured into the rainforest at night. Tiny tree frogs clung to leaves, snakes curled along the forest floor, and nocturnal birds called out overhead. Glow-in-the-dark insects sparkled in the shadows, making it feel like we had stepped into an entirely new world.

Why This Trip Was Unforgettable

Leading this adventure reminded me why I love hosting Women Who Explore trips. The wildlife, the rivers, the beaches, and the jungle were magical — but it was the women who made it unforgettable. Their laughter, fearless spirits, and shared stories turned Costa Rica into so much more than a destination.

This trip was the perfect reminder that adventure is about more than just the place — it’s about the people you share it with.


Written by Stephanie Pyle, Trip Host & Ambassador

Stephanie Pyle, a Missouri native, loves hiking, yoga, and camping in all forms. A 200-hour certified yoga instructor and avid traveler, she has studied abroad in Italy and Switzerland. Since 2022, she’s been a Women Who Explore Ambassador in St. Louis, leading hikes, yoga, and local events.

Connect with Stephanie

📸 Follow her adventures on Instagram
🌲 Join her local WWE St. Louis Facebook group

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