Internationale groepsreis Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

The trip in general was excellent. Well organized with plenty of support personnel. Accommodations were very good and there was excellent food available. The tour leader was exceptional giving attention to the smallest details. The tour Leader was resourceful and extremely knowledgeable of the plants animals and sites we came across. While a bit pricey it was worth it. No regrets. It was a great adventure!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Riding in a group of 5 riders flat out for about 20 kilometers. taking turns leading the pack with others tucked in tight behind. Man we were moving. What a thrill!

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto Abuilar was amazing. In addition to his excellent leadership skills he was organized. He was in phenomenal shape physically and never seemed to tire. He kept us well briefed and always reviewed maps and safety briefings every morning. He managed the support crew well and ensured our bikes were in top form. I would give Roberto a gold star.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Develop a taste for Rice and Beans! The route can be a bit taxing so do some cycling before going. The heat is incredible at times so you need to be in decent shape physically

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would recommend changing the routes on Day one and two. I did like the out and back rides. Maybe go to the volcano on day 2 and start cycling from the volcano down to the open market on lake Nicaragua could be considered

Wonderful holiday through 3 amazing countries

I had a really wonderful trip cycling through Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. It is 3 very interesting countries and the trip had lots of variations. Nicaragua is really untouched so would highly recommend spending a few extra nights here before the start of the trip - to see some more volcanos in the North around León. Costa Rica is the most touristy of the 3 - but very beautiful with a lot of great nature and a good chance to spot some animals. Panama is very interesting and in particular the Panama Canal and the old part of Panama City, which reminded me a lot about Havanna in Cuba.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It is hard to choose - but I think one of the highlights for me was definitely to see the Panama Canal and the big ships going through the locks in the Canal. The exhibition centre with the observation deck and the museum in relation to the Canal is a great place to spent some hours.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto was a really nice group leader - with a big passion for his country and Central America. He was also a really good cyclist and very keen on to ensure everyone was having a good time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It can get very hot and humid at times so ensure to drink lots of water while cycling. Otherwise just enjoy it - it was not as hard as I thought it was going to be since the distance every day is quite reasonable.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I think there was only one minor minus on the trip - where you in the end are staying far away from the centre of Panama City. Would have loved to stay in the old town and really soak up the real atmosphere. Luckily our guide took us to the old town - but going there should be a mandatory part of the trip since this should not be missed.

A Steamy Fortnight

Wasn't sure what to expect other than heat, although I must admit at times even the humidity surprised me (travelled in February). Normally I go to sleep in the small hours but each day was so busy with varied activities that I was happy to turn in after dinner.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Panama Canal is a splendid culmination of two weeks of challenging cycling (hills, wind and heat), but the day spent dolphin watching (an optional excursion), the trip to the edge of the volcano and then the caldera, the river rafting and wildlife spotting, and the most delicious pineapples and bananas are also up there. With only one exception (in Arenal) the hotels were chosen with care and thought regarding character.

What did you think of your group leader?

Guillermo and his team were always ready to answer questions or meet our needs.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Sunscreen and other protection from the rays. It rained throughout our day through the rainforest: many dressed up although I dressed down and accepted I was going to get soaked. Our bikes even had water bottles and speedos which are not normally provided. My reading material remained unread at the end of the trip, there was lots to do.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were lucky having such a cohesive group and were very sad to say goodbye. Ability varied but the 98% back up bus was rarely used. Even the border crossings were fascinating. This one will go down as one of your most memorable trips.

MUC

A fantastic induction to 3 central American countries.... covering pacific and caribbean coasts, spending most of the time surrounded by fantastic scenery. I think we had a very authentic experience... in terms of the best sites, seeing where indigenous people lived, and plenty of opportunity for wildlife spotting along the way. The cycling was a good challenge but not overly taxing. It was well paced and the days were very well structured to give a great balance of cycling, sight-seeing, meal times and R&R.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Day 4 in Nicaragaua: Woke up on a Volcanic Island with great views of Volcanoes :) , biked to a fresh water spring for a cool, refreshing dip, took a ferry back to the mainland to begin cycling through incredible Nicaraguan country-side, visited a local school and met some great kids, ending up on the Pacific coast at a fantastic hotel with access to 2 beautiful beaches..one of which where we enjoyed a well deserved beer after the afternoon bike ride, and the other served as a backdrop to a cocktail hour while watching a pacific sunset. Incredible!

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto was fantastic. Worked incredibly hard for 2 weeks to ensure everyone was well taken care of. Nothing was too much trouble. He gave us his insights and perspective on all aspects of the countries we were visiting. Always organized, thoughtful and with a great smile. Very ably supported by Paul (who could be a tour de france competitor :)), Luis (fantastic driver) and Andrea (up and coming tour guide.. with a passion for her country). Pura Vida!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Pack light. Expect some rain if you travel in the rainy season..although there were big differences in conditions between caribbean and pacific coasts. But always pretty warm and humid.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama

This is a wonderful trip giving a chance to explore three different countries on a bicycle. Each day is very different giving a wide variety of experiences of what the three countries have to offer, from rolling hills to cloud forest and rainforest to coast with some fantastic hotels.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There are so many wonderful moments it's difficult to choose any one in particular but here are some of my favourite moments: - The first hotel in Granada is a real charm, centrally located and very comfortable, the day on Ometepe is fantastic and the optional cycle in the morning to the springs is worth taking to cool down in. The cycle around Lake Arenal is breathtaking and the float down the river the following morning is wonderful. Bocas del Toro is a great spot and there is a free day there to take advantage of a boat trip to see the dolphins, stop off for some snorkelling and visit Red Frog Beach. Seeing the Panama Canal is also a great highlight of the trip.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto and Andrea are fantastic, they couldn't do enough for us. They have a wealth of knowledge about all three countries and enjoy sharing it with the group. Pol, the mechanic leader is also super, always checking the bikes' safety and leading from the front. Luis, the bus driver, carefully transported us on the transfers. All in all a wonderful team.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you're thinking of going on this trip, book it fast - you won't regret it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama

an excellent holiday with fantastic and ever changing scenery and cycling. a good amount of wildlife and other activities to enjoy along the way.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

there were plenty, possibly the visit to Ometepe Island, maybe cycling around lake Arenal or snorkelling around Bocas Del Toro. Then again it could have been swimming in the Caribbean, pacific and Atlantic Oceans or maybe just walking along the beach at the whilst staying at the Las Lajas hotel.

What did you think of your group leader?

first class

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It's not all cycling so this trip is perfect for anyone who does not want to spend the entire day in the saddle.

Central America - So Much to Discover!

If you are considering this trip, do not hesitate! It is a wonderful introduction to three very diverse countries. If you like variety, this is the trip for you -- each of the countries is distinct, but there are few similarities from one stop to the other. As well, there is a lot of variety in the activities beyond cycling, including: visits to a coffee plantation and a family-run chocolate making spot ... river rafting ... zip-lining above and through the cloud and rain forest ... Panama Canal visitors center ... animal rescue / rehabilitation facility just to name a few. So, it is not only about cycling, but obviously that is the focus and the means of moving from one destination to the next. The cycling is demanding--yes ... but not so much that the average person cannot feel comfortable on this trip and there are always options if the hill climbing is too much. The benefits of being close to nature and to people are something that can only be experienced on a bike. You won't feel exhausted - but you will have a pleasant "GOOD TIRED" feeling each night. Every morning I was enthusiastic to get back on the bike for what we had to discover that day.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were a few inspirational moments: seeing volcanos (outstanding landscape) - visiting a small school and connecting with the children - one stage (Chocolata Road to San Juan del Sur) where we felt so close to the local people - the birds and animals - the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal.

What did you think of your group leader?

Apart from the natural beauty and memorable opportunities to connect with people on this trip, what made it so tremendous were our team: Roberto (Tour Leader) - Paul (Assistant) and Luis (Driver) - they looked after each of us and were 100% dedicated to making this trip a terrific experience. Our safety and our enjoyment was their goal!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for all kinds of weather - hot and sunny and at times rainy. This means you need enough "kit" or you'll be doing lots of washing at night and hoping things are dry by morning. Well padded gloves are really necessary - along with sun glasses (obviously) and clear glasses (for overcast / rainy days). We had small bike bags that fit on our handle bars and were GREAT for a camera, sun screen, extra water bottle, etc.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ensure you have time to get to the start point and that your luggage arrives with you - this is especially important as most people will have to transit through the US and clear customs, etc. Granada is a wonderful place and we were happy to have a few days there before the trip began to explore, acclimatize and get ready for our adventure and we would recommend this where possible!

3 countries...2 wheels...1 amazing trip through Central America!

A very well organised trip with a great group of people and stunning scenery! This was my first time in Central America but it definitely won't be my last. It exceeded all of my expectations and cycling proved to be a great way to see each country. There was a good mix between challenging cycles, sightseeing and time to relax. It was nice to get up in the morning and know you had a full day of activities ahead of you but not have to worry about organising any of them - you just have to turn up with a positive attitude and enjoy!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the top of the tough hills and enjoying the breathtaking views that made all of the huffing and puffing worthwhile!

What did you think of your group leader?

From the moment we stepped off the plane, Memo was standing waiting to greet us with his trademark big smile that never seemed to leave his face! He educated us on the history of each country, informed us of the different political and economic circumstances and pointed out various fauna and wildlife along the way. He worked tirelessly to ensure we had the trip of a lifetime and I truly did have the trip of a lifetime!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Bring US dollars in small denominations (as you can generally pay in US but change is usually given in local currency). I appreciated my padded shorts and gel seat and would recommend having both. Do some cycling preparation beforehand - you'll be thankful when you hit those hills.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama

Great trip overall but would have liked less bus and more bike

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Panama Canal

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take an umbrella and poly bags for East Coast Costa Rica - drying wet clothes is not always simple!!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Very good bikes supplied for the Costa Rica Panama section with 29 inch wheels 27 gears and computers for speed, mileage etc. Fantastic.

Good trip. Too much time on the bus. Some poor hotels.

This was a well-organised trip that attempts to do oo much. The net result is a trip spent on a bus, with some cycling. Some of the hotels were good and some were frankly dire. The unfortunate thing is you don't really get to see anything, as you often arrive near dark and set off early. Shame, it could have been so much better. Exodus is rapidly going downhill, and this is far from being just my opinion.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Some of the scenery, such as Ometepe Island was simply spectacular. The Pacific Ocean is wonderful to swim in.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto was simply great. Nothing was too much trouble and everything was well organised. I must not forget our fabulous driver, Ronald and our mechanic Dionysius.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I am not sure I would do a trip like this with Exodus again. There are better trips to be had. Hint though, if you do travel on this trip, anti-malarial tablets are not necessary. You also do not need a yellow fever jab.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It is time Exodus got its act together. Other companies such as Explore and G Adventures are doing much better and at a far cheaper price. Wake up Exodus!

Cycle Central America MUC 160123

Hot, humid and hilly! A wonderful trip hopping from the Caribbean to the Pacific twice. Breathtaking scenery as we ascended into the cloud forest. Such diversity of flora and fauna, and unusually stunning creatures to be seen along the way.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching the sunset at Las Lajas Beach Resort hotel, Panama. The Pacific Ocean was as warm as a bath, the vast expanse of empty beach a beautiful location. An absolute treat after a long, hot cycle. The Tenorio River trip was wonderful, 2 hours of tranquility, with many birds and creatures being pointed out by our river guide. The bats were a fantastic find.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto Abuilar was informative, patient and a great leader. Several events did not go according to plan but he managed to sort out the problems without majorly affecting the trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The included flight was with United Airways which was a huge disappointment to the start of the holiday. I can only describe it as a long haul budget airway. Food was sparse and kept to a minimum. Anything additional had to be paid for. Eat a big breakfast before you fly. Lots of cobbled roads and rough tracks in Nicaragua. If you have a delicate derrière take a gel seat pad for that leg of the journey. Take some binoculars to search for the Toucans.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Boca del Toro islands were absolutely wonderful but several of us got the feeling we were being ripped off on the island trip which included dolphin watching and snorkelling. The trip notes stated if enough of us went on the outing, it would be reduced from 25 dollars to 22 dollars. We all went but this didn't happen. Firstly we were taken to a restaurant to choose our meal for later. However when we went snorkelling at a different location, there was already a restaurant there and having looked at the menu, the food on offer was vastly cheaper. We were taken back to first restaurant for lunch. I can only presume that this premises was run buy a relative of our boat captain. The food was extortionate and atrocious. We were then taken to Red Frog Beach. The trip notes stated there was a 3 dollar entrance fee. We were charged 5 dollars. This marred what was a really lovely day. I don't mind paying for a great service but I really felt they thought we were mugs and we were being ripped off.

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

This was our first ever Exodus trip and we were most impressed with every aspect of it. It was an excellent introduction to the three countries.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling on the deserted roads on Ometepe getting a real feel for how the villagers live and being waved at in a welcoming and friendly manner by everyone we met. The courtesy shown our group by drivers in Nicaragua on the couple of occasions we had to cycle on very busy roads and a roundabout. Cycling 45 miles on one day (the furthest we'd ever cycled) and still raring to get back in the saddle the next morning!

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto (Chino) was outstanding and ably assisted by Memo. They were both lovely people - good humoured, cheerful, positive, diplomatic, encouraging, patient at all times and extremely hard working. They answered all our questions and told us lots about each different country. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The very occasional problem with a bike was solved immediately. A great deal of behind the scenes work was being done so that everything went so smoothly.Roberto was efficiency personified – the slick and quick way he checked us all into each hotel was most welcome after a hard day's cycling. We liked his briefing each evening and morning and appreciated the really detailed supplementary trip notes he provided us with.The safety of the group when out cycling was paramount – Roberto's attention to this aspect of the trip was exemplary.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get  as fit as you can – we found the cycling quite tough. There are a lot of hills. Padded cycling shorts are essential! Don't expect to see wild life at every turn. This is a cycling trip but you'll still get to see some amazing animals and birds. The bikes were excellent but another time I'd consider taking my own saddle.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It was hillier than we'd expected – and rainier at times! The frequent stops for fresh fruit and to re-group were well organised and appreciated. If you are concerned about being in a group all the time, you also get a lot of time on your own as you cycle through the wonderful scenery. The others in the group were a good mix of ages, nationalities and cycling abilities. It's a very busy trip – don't expect to have lots of free time to read! All the hotels had wi-fi. We chose to spend an extra day in Granada at the start and found plenty to keep us busy.

Father and son bonding

Great trip with my 19 year old son,great companions , Roberto was like a mother hen and kept us all safe ( despite my sons best efforts ) . Met up with other son 21 who was in Panama for a month in Bochas del Toro volunteering with Floating Doctors.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Looking into the active volcano at night. I was a bit cynical at first about the school visit but it is the real thing , Roberto truly loved those children and made a meaningful interface between us and the children so that they and us gained without patronising the children.

What did you think of your group leader?

Roberto and Steve who took over on last days were both great and went beyond anything expected.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do some hill training before you arrive as there are some steep climbs.I had only prepared on the flat . No sure I ever will hear the word "undulation " again without wincing

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Mr

A fantastic trip - between my wife and I we have done over 12 Excodus cycling holidays and this recent trip of ours to the Lake District of Chile and Argentina was the best one. A well organized and memerable trip, with a well thought out route and breathtakingly beautiful scenery. A special thanks to the local operator of BikeWay and Marcello, with our guides Taiel and Jero, who expertly managed this trip and made it so enjoyable

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling over the top of the Andes, with the views of the snow capped volcanoes and lakes

What did you think of your group leader?

Dedicated, professional and always went beyond what was expected or required

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Check on the local weather conditions for when you go; and make sure that you take the necessary cycling clothing options with, so you are always prepared for the sometimes sudden changes in the weather of the region and enjoy every day of cycling day

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great cycling holiday - a definite add to the 'bucket list' of a must do trip

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

Ridiculously amazing!  If you want to see Central America off the beaten track, be refreshed by the wonders of the animals, birds, volcanos, amazing cycling and a perfect end every day with a body of water and cocktail waiting, then this is the trip for you.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Every day, every moment.  I think I woke up with a smile plastered to my face and ended with one as well.  Hiking through the tropical forest over rope bridges that extend across the expanses.  Riding 48 mph down a volcano.  Sipping pina coladas in the hot springs.  Rafting along the river to see iguanas, monkeys, birds, bats and the list goes on.  Doing the zipline tour in La Fortuna.  Fresh papaya, pinneapple, guava and coconut on the roadside stand.  Taking a leisurely dip in the ocean, gulf or pool at the end of every day.  Watching the sunset at the base of the volcano while floating in the lake.  Giving soccer balls to some very appreciative little ones.  All the smiling faces along the route both young and old, giving us encouragement and letting us see a bit into the wonderful countries that are theirs. 

What did you think of your group leader?

The best ever!  Kevin kept us well infomed, made sure we were safe, well taken care of and basically spoiled us for any other potential guide we may have in the future.  Paul was an incredible guide, both on and off the bike, pointing out the sights and animals so that nothing was to be missed by our untrained eyes.  Taking great care of our bikes and us along the route during any mishaps with tires, chains etc.  Luis, Eugenio and Ronaldo kept us safe on the roads.  Amazing team.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get some cycling in before you come.  If the terrain is too rough or the heat gets to you, you can always get on the bus.  However you really don't want to miss a day of riding, cause there is nothing like seeing these countries from the saddle.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just a sincere thanks to Kevin, Paul, Luis, Eugenio and Ronaldo for the most remarkable adventure I've ever had and hopefully the beginning to many more!

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

A sensational and "safe" way to see the best of Central America by bicycle. You are immersed in the scenery, people and wildlife of the region from the moment you arrive, and are looked after with respect and concern throughout the journey, whilst still maintaining your own independence as much as possible.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Multiple observations of real life by passing alongside those who live and work in the towns and regions visited. So much activity occurs on the road and the bike is a fantastic way to participate in the journey. You see kids playing with simple toys, families walking to destinations, transportation of just about anything by bike, horse, oxen and people just living their lives. This is an enormous privilege.

What did you think of your group leader?

Rob is professional, endlessly patient, interactive, reliable and unwavering in his commitment to us all.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The cycling is wonderful, and be prepared for hills and heat. I was unaware of the very significant amount of bus travel involved, sometimes for over 3 hours. The bus is not really geared for a full complement of travellers and it can be squashed on board. So if you are expecting continuous cycling, you will be surprised regarding the bus commute, which is not really made apparent in the trip notes, at least not for the amount experienced. But also note there is really no other way to cover the distance so this aspect is unavoidable and it’s also to keep you off the really busy roads and hills. Just know that it is necessary to do the tour and see the 3 countries in the time allowed. There are also numerous restaurant lunch stops, so think about whether you would prefer snacks or lighter meals, rather than commit to these. Lastly, many meals are taken as a group but you can split if you want to, but definitely eat with the group a lot too.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A totally fantastic experience and a wonderful way to see some of the best of Central America. You can dwell on minutiae regarding meals, bus, the odd poor accommodation etc, but the overall concept is amazing. Great value for money too, with most nights being comfortable at least and many really very good. You will love your photos and irreplaceable memories forever.

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

This was the best holiday my husband and I ever experienced.   We feel in love with cycling, met so many great like-minded people.  It was the trip of a lifetime.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational moment of our trip was in Costa Rica.    I'm new to cycling and wasn't in the best shape of my life.      I didn't realize my husband had booked us a moderate / challenge trip :-)        To get to the point Costa Rica has some pretty serious hills and I cycled up every single one of them !!!!   I may have been slow but I stayed on my bike and did it.     

What did you think of your group leader?

I must say that I owe so much to our tour guide, Rob. Rob was thoughtful, encouraging, supportive, kind ..... Rob gave me the power to accomplish so much on this trip just by being there and vocalizing his words of encouragement. Telling me how impressed he was for a first timer that I was doing well and I could do it .. and cycle I did. Thank you Rob. It is because of you that this was the best trip and we found our love of cycling, so much so that it will now be an annual event for us.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My advise to potential travellors is to have fun.    Enjoy yourself and remember even though other people are there for different reasons this is your vacation.   Stop and smell the roses { so to speak }   take picture, ask questions and if need be don't be embarrased to ride the bus.    I did one day and it ended up being awesome .. I was able to take pictures of the other group members and they loved it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I honestly feel this is such an incredible way to experience and see a country.   I would highly recommend travelling with Exodus.    The hotels were top notch, the food was fantastic.   Every aspect of the trip was put together, planned out and just left you with a feeling that you were in solid capable hands no matter what the situation.  Thank you Exodus.

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

Standard of certain hotels were much below expectations of a Premium Trip

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling 50 miles in one day - a first for us!

What did you think of your group leader?

Well organised, informative, supportive of all cycling abilities.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As a group, we felt that the stops for lunch were unnecessarily long and resulted in late afternoon arrival at destination hotel. Arriving late meant that there was little daylight time for exploring or enjoying the new environment.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The trip notes were misleading in places. Few opportunities for enjoying the Ocean. Hotel descriptions were disingenuous at times. The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica was disappointing. There was no time for the most important National Parks and so wildlife viewing was limited.

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

Brilliant way to see aspects of three countries in a part of the world of which I knew almost nothing.A lovely blend of cycling, wildlife trip, and genuine holiday (good company, very comfortable accommodation, good food, plenty to drink).

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  Arriving unexpectedly at the Pacific coast of Nicaragua.  When I say "unexpectedly" - we were meant to go there, but I thought we had a bit more cycling to do!  In all honesty, I didn't know the geography of Nicaragua (or much else about the country) and the whole Nicaragua section of the trip was a delight. But hitting the beach, after a delightful if slightly muddy stretch of off road, was a treat.  And wandering down shortly afterwards to catch the sunset with a cocktail seemed the right thing to do, too. Rounding off a cycling day in La Fortuna with a zip wire trip in the canopy that covers one of the volcanoes, and then a bathe in the hot springs (some days were pretty packed.)  As a wildlife enthusiast, I felt pretty excited about my first sloths and toucans.   

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent,  Janiell engaged well with all of us, and led the Costa Rican team well.  Outstandingly well-organised.  Two examples:   I don't think I waited as long as a minute for a room key!  When you have finished a cycling day and really want a shower, that is a great boon When we switched bikes in Costa Rica, all the replacement bikes were ready for our size and properly labelled: to do this for one set of bikes is good, to have it done for both sets was very slick.   Luis and Ronald dsereve a special mention : they lifted our bikes onto and from the roof of the bus so many times...

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I prefer to put stuff into frame bags on my bike, rather than carry a rucksack.  In tropical heat, I would not want the extra burden of a rucksack .. but I do like to have camera, binoculars etc handy.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Were we just lucky?  Several of the things I might worry about just weren't problems.  The bikes were excellent (and Luis seemed able to fix what was needed); there didn't seem to be many insects (apart from butterflies ..); the road surfaces were pretty good (fewer potholes than we are used to!)   Have already encouraged four friends to book this trip ..

CYCLE NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA & PANAMA

Fantastic holiday, good varied itinerary, challenging in the heat but good support, can highly recommend this trip if you like seeing lots of wildlife, great scenery and lovely food!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The cycling was varied on the Ometepe Island, Nicaragua was very scenic, down to beach on the pacific was lovely and a well earned dip at the end of a hot days cycling, around Arenal was fab and Panama Canal really good, we loved seeing the crocodiles on the raft trip, never been so close to a crocodile before, had to remember never smile at crocodile!

What did you think of your group leader?

The team were very good, plenty of stops which were needed as we were all ready for drinks and snacks after cycling in such heat. Leader was friendly and a good sport.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a change of clothes to change into for the bus journeys, take a handlebar bag to store your camera, sun cream and money in, too hot for a backpack. Don't expect to loose any weight the foods fantastic!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great trip can recommend you get booked now!