Chasing Waterfalls in Costa Rica - Rock My Wedding

Chasing Waterfalls in Costa Rica - Rock My Wedding

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Today we are bringing you the next in our series of honeymoon guides in association with Mr & Mrs Smith and their Wanderlist guides.

Last month we featured the stunning Maldives with a host of water based activities to show it isn't all about lying on the beach. Maybe just at cocktail o'clock!

This month it's all about adventure and adrenalin. The fabulous Costa Rica is full of the most stunning scenery and mind blowing experiences. Don't listen to baggy-trousered Nineties girl-band TLC - if you're in Costa Rica, DO go chasing waterfalls. Whether you're chasing by foot or by boat, you'll pass lush jungles, foggy cloud forests, hidden beaches and the odd volcano, too.

The Top 5

  • Ride the rapids on the Pacuare River
  • Go surfing at Playa Guiones in Nosara
  • Spot nesting leatherback sea turtles at Playa Grande
  • Dive with dolphins in Drake Bay
  • Zip-line over Monteverde Cloud Forest
  • Where to stay

    Wake up with a buzz at coffee-plantation hideaway Finca Rosa Blanca, whose house brew is as energising as its gardens. At cloud-prodding paradise El Silencio, you can salute sunrise from the yoga deck. If you're craving the ocean, make your way to the Pacific-facing Oxygen Jungle Villas. Get a digital detox at the really-back-to-nature Pacuare Lodge.

    PIN THE PLACES


    Swish jungle bungalows
    Don't miss the ocean-facing spa

    Something to write home about

    Every path here seems to lead to a natural wonder. Some must-sees: Manuel Antonio National Park (and its monkeys); the rivers and mountains by Arenal Volcano; Guanacaste's coastal cowboy country and Tamarindo's surf breaks.

    When to go

    Dry season is mid-December-April: expect prices to rise with the mercury. If you're a surfer, you'll love wet season (August- October). Be aware that varying altitudes mean temperatures fluctuate between swelteringly hot and surprisingly cool.

    What To Pack

    You'll want to pack for adventure. Go for swimwear that can withstand the rapids! This halter neck swimsuit from M&S is ideal and can become strapless for lounging by the pool. Some cute shorts and vest tops will be perfect for a hike through the jungle or to discover hidden beaches. Some Manuka yoga leggings will be the perfect addition for saluting the sunrise in the most spectacular of settings and double up an action packed afternoon. For your feet pack your comfy trainers and the ever trusty havianas.

    Keep your evening wear relaxed and unfussy. Little sundresses or these Moto denim shorts and a cute top will be perfect. You'll probably want to stick with flats so some pretty sandals or flip flops will be ideal.

    You won't need much in the way of accessories for the day except a rucksack (yes I did say that!) for when you are out and about. This grey hiker version from ASOS is bound to be a winner. This lovely pendant from Urban Outfitters can brighten up a plain black vest top for evening.

    Beauty Looks

    This honeymoon requires effortless but chic beauty styles. Most importantly they need to last through jungle treks and diving in to waterfalls.

    For your beauty bag a waterproof mascara is a must and I love the wide eyed look you get with the Lancome Waterproof mascara. This Charlotte Tilbury lip to cheek dewy colour pop may just be your new best friend. It gives the perfect hit of colour on both your lips and cheeks plus is great to saving space in your luggage. For evening add a dash of bronzer and a bright lip.

    Your hair is bound to take a bit of a battering with all the dips in the water so make sure you pack this restorative serum from Dove to leave your hair super soft and shiney at the end of the day. If you have long hair get practicing a few simple plaits or relaxed pony tails for in the day and then redo these with some super sexy messy tendrils for the evening.

    You can find more inspiration in our Mr & Mrs Smith Honeymoon pages

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