Whew! What a year 2020 has been for the whole world! Here in Costa Rica, everyone is awaiting tonight’s celebration with more anticipation than ever. New Year’s in Costa Rica is always a big event, and although group celebrations will be limited this year, people can’t wait to bid farewell to 2020.
This year, New Year’s will be brought in with an air of new hope and enthusiasm toward the future. So, before we sign off for the holiday weekend and head to the beach to catch the last sunset of the year, we wanted to give you a glimpse at how people in Costa Rica will be spending tonight’s celebration.
Most government and private offices close for anywhere from 2-3 weeks right before Christmas, as people take off from the city in search of some R&R among nature, usually at the beaches, which are generally packed this time of year! Regardless if New Year’s is spent at home or at one of the many beach towns, including our beautiful Manuel Antonio Beach, New Year’s in Costa Rica is definitely a family affair. Costa Ricans typically gather with large groups of family and friends at home or at a Manuel Antonio vacation rental or other vacation villas along the coast.
The celebration starts by watching sunset at the beach, then heading back to the vacation rental to start cooking, all while enjoying music and a little dancing to set the mood for the night’s celebration. Dinner is enjoyed late, normally around 10pm so everyone has time to digest and wait for the midnight fireworks, which can be enjoyed all over the country. A typical dinner consists of carne asada or grilled meats, along with roasted pork leg, pasta or potato salad, corn on the cob, and a fresh salad. For dessert, a cinnamon-spiced, rice pudding or tres leches (three milk cake) can’t be denied!
Although this year’s celebration will be a little different as the beach gatherings and public fireworks shows have been cancelled, the air of excitement can still be felt and no doubt the new year will be brought in with happiness… After all Costa Rica knows how to embody the pura vida lifestyle in all situations!
And for our American visitors who we have had the pleasure of hosting at Villa Perezoso this week, they will enjoy dinner with our chef and have opted to try some Costa Rican traditional dishes to ring in the new year in a different way! Their morning was spent on a private catamaran and snorkeling cruise, followed by afternoon massages at the villa. Aside from several private tours and activities and complete relaxation at the villa, their holiday vacation has also been packed full of monkey sightings, scarlet macaws and toucan visits. What better way to spend the New Year’s holiday?
So, for now, we will sign off, but before we do, we wish you all a happy and healthy start to the new year. Never have we been happier to say: Pura Vida & Feliz Año Nuevo!
The holidays are upon us, and all of us at Villa Perezoso are looking forward to celebrating our favorite time of the year—We’re sure you are, too.
We are so thankful that 2021 is just around the corner. There’s much to look forward to this year: the anticipation and availability of COVID-19 vaccines, the opportunity to once again be together with our loved ones, and finally being able to take those trips we put on hold this year!
This coming year will ring in with the hope of once again having the opportunity to do what we love. We can entertain new possibilities again! Who will we visit? Where will we go? And speaking of getaways, as you’re relaxing this holiday season, keep in mind that Villa Perezoso is offering 2021 travel specials so you and your loved ones can come enjoy our little slice of paradise, even if you’re on a strict budget! With this fabulous travel special, you can stay for 7 nights in the tropical lushness and serenity of Manuel Antonio, but only pay for 6 nights! And if you need vacation ideas, remember that we have the perfect Manuel Antonio vacation itinerary ideas that can be customized just for you! Rest assured, when you’re ready to travel or if you’re traveling in the next few weeks to stay with us, you will be taken care of and pampered every step of the way. After all, we know how important having R&R time is and we want every guest to have the opportunity to unwind and relax with us.
For those who have opted to stay with us this holiday season, we thank you in advance for choosing to spend your holiday season with us! For those who are looking forward to visits this Winter or Spring, we cannot wait to host you and look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories.
In the meantime, we wish you the happiest of holidays!
Manuel Antonio National Park- Beautiful Tropical Beach
We are starting to wrap up a year that none of us ever will forget. As we approach the end of 2020, we are all so happy to turn to something more joyful: the holiday season and everything we have to be grateful for! Whether your traditions center around family, food, football, the Great Outdoors or travel, we know the holidays will look a little different this year for most of us. Yet, in spite of the crazy year we have all endured, we still have much to be grateful for.
At Villa Perezoso, we are grateful to live in a tranquil place that is surrounded by so much natural beauty. We are also grateful for the support of our staff and our vendors as well as the tour operators in Manuel Antonio, who have shown so much camaraderie and solidarity during this challenging year. If you are traveling with us for the holidays ahead, you will soon be able to experience some of the reasons why we are so grateful this year…
To be able to sit outside on one of the terraces of the villa and observe nature, serene and at peace, is a true gift. To be able to visit the beach or mountains, to breathe fresh air and experience wildlife in its natural habitat is healing. Many of us spent months at time during the shutdown filled with worry and anticipation. Sitting among nature in a peaceful environment is an offering we must all learn to cherish, and one that so many of us here in Manuel Antonio took on board this year. Another important reason we are grateful is that in spite of the difficulty of the year, we were able to spend important family time together. As we approach Thanksgiving, we will once again gather together, but this time with an air of enthusiasm for the new year ahead of us.
We are so excited to be welcoming our guests back and we want to thank you in advance for your continued support over the years. Many of you have visited us several times, or have referred us to your friends and family. Your support means everything to us and we are so grateful! If you visit us this year, you will be greeted with the same warmth that you have always received, although you may note an even greater sense of excitement from our team to be hosting you! Your well-being and that of our team is at the forefront of everything we do. We take pride in playing a part in the important moments of your vacation, and give thanks for the opportunity to be able to host you.
Happy holidays from all of us at Villa Perezoso to you!
It’s green season in Costa Rica and everyone at Villa Perezoso has been busy between rain showers getting the villa ready for our upcoming holiday season and for the 2021 year that lies ahead. What a year this has been… After closing down for 8 months due to the pandemic, we endured Tropical Storms Eta and Tropical Storm Iota, but thankfully all is well at the villa, and in our surrounding area, and we are looking forward to a wonderful holiday season and a much better 2021!
Now that Costa Rica rainy season is starting to pass and the days are starting to get sunnier, the feel of the holidays is in the air! Not only is everyone at Villa Perezoso busy getting things ready, but the whole town of Manuel Antonio is bustling with enthusiasm and joy as we begin to welcome tourists back.
After a year of such incredible ups and downs, everyone is anticipating this holiday season with more excitement than ever. Tour operators have been operating since November 1st and all of our favorite restaurants, cafés and shops are back open also. It’s great to see how everyone has joined together to re-do protocols and safely welcome people back to our community.
With the holiday spirit in mind, we want to spread the cheer by offering some further travel perks for anyone who is ready for a getaway and wants to visit us this coming year. Previously we announced our Fall travel specials, which are still in effect. We have added to this offer by adding a new special valid for 2021 dates: Stay 7 Nights and Only Pay 6 Nights!
We previously talked about the perfect week-long vacation itinerary and made some vacation suggestions for a tranquil Manuel Antonio getaway. Our concierge team will work with you to create your customized vacation itinerary, designed just for you!
So what are you waiting for? Let us welcome you to Villa Perezoso and pamper you in your own private vacation rental, where paradise envelopes you daily…
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Inquire with us for offer details! Offer not valid for peak weeks or combinable with other promotions.
After a much-needed break and some green season home improvements to beautify the villa for the upcoming season, all of us at Villa Perezoso are back and looking forward to the upcoming 2021! With the holidays right around the corner, we know everyone up North is soon going to be busy making delicious meal plans and cozying up against the cooler evenings. Meanwhile down here in paradise, we are beginning to make travel plans with different groups of guests we have coming after the new year. So, while we’re busy making travel arrangements, we thought we’d take a moment and share some perfect getaway ideas in case you are interested in taking a little escape to our tropical haven anytime soon. Whether it be for a long weekend getaway with your significant other, a family vacation with the kids, or a friends’ trip, here are 3 Costa Rica trips that are sure to give you that R&R that you need!
Couples Getaway
In need of some time away with your honey? What could be better than a long weekend in the tropics! Complete with peace and quiet, beautiful scenery and a villa that is perfect for couples, this might just be the perfect getaway to have some down time, and to finally be able to enjoy some one-on-one time with your significant other. Who’s interested in strolls on the beach, beautiful sunsets and waking up leisurely? Or perhaps you prefer to travel with other couples and make it a multi-couples trip. Villa Perezoso also provides the perfect lodging experience for groups of couples wanting to get away without the kids. Complete with different options to suit each travel group, Villa Perezoso offers the upper 2-bedroom penthouse with its rooftop Jacuzzi and sweeping ocean-views, or the lower main 3-bedroom villa complete with infinity-edge plunge pool and spacious bedrooms, each with en suite baths and private balconies. If your group is larger, combine both for the complete 5-bedroom offering of this amazing tropical villa set right in the heart of the Manuel Antonio rainforest! Whether you are looking for romance and relaxation, or adventure and activity, Villa Perezoso offers the perfect lodging option for couples’ groups.
Family Vacation
Looking for a great way to get away with the whole family to a place that offers something for everyone? Who in your family would enjoy surfing, fishing, jet skiing, ATV’ing, zip lining through the rainforest, hiking through the jungle or lying on the beach with their toes in the sand? All of this and much more is available in Manuel Antonio. Known as the place that “has it all”, it’s no surprise that the Manuel Antonio beach has been named one of the world’s most beautiful by Forbes. Complete with a beachfront national park, Manuel Antonio provides incredible vacation activities and ways to get out and have fun! And remember that in case Mom and Dad want to get out one night for dinner on their own, we even have nanny service available!
Friends Trip
Who is ready for a guys-only or girls-only trip? Whether you are looking to have a little fun with the girls, get pampered and indulge in chef services and spa therapy right at the villa, or head out to one of the nearby spas and wellness centers, and enjoy some great excursions and time on the beach, Villa Perezoso is your perfect vacation lodging option. Or perhaps you and the guys want to get away for a fishing trip or an adrenaline-based adventure trip… Manuel Antonio offers the perfect mix of adrenaline opportunities mixed with relaxation and comfort.
Whatever your perfect vacation getaway scenario is, we can help you set it up. Our travel concierge is on-call prior to and during your stay to make sure that every detail is attended to, so that you don’t have to worry. And don’t forget about our winter travel specials! We are offering 10% off all reservations booked now through December for travel through mid-March.
Are you ready to travel again? This year has proven difficult for those of us who love to travel and revel in the joy that travel brings to our lives. We all know that vacation can provide you the reset you need as well as a fresh perspective when you return home.
If you’ve already had the pleasure of visiting Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica then you know that there is far too much to see and do in this fantastic town than what you can possibly experience in just one vacation. On the other hand, if you are new to the Manuel Antonio vacation scene, you may be wondering what the best things to schedule for your vacation are. Regardless of your travel style, there is something for everyone! Here, we’ve highlighted some ideas for the perfect Manuel Antonio vacation itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival to Costa Rica
Upon arrival to Costa Rica, one of our private vans can pick you up at the airport for about $200, depending on your group size. Charter flights are also available. The arrival process is seamless as our concierge can pre-coordinate an airport handler to assist you with collecting your baggage and going through Customs. Following that, the airport handler arranges for the van to be waiting for you right as you exit the airport. Once in the van, you will sit back and enjoy a scenic 2.20-hour ride to Villa Perezoso. You may even sip on drinks or munch on snacks along the way, if you have pre-ordered these with our Concierge. What better way to travel than with a drink in hand and amazingly beautiful scenery!
If you fancy sightseeing along the way, there are a couple of great stops. One is the Tarcoles Bridge or “Crocodile Bridge” as it is commonly known. This is the perfect pit stop and allows for observing large crocodiles in their natural habitat. Another great place to stop is in the town of Jaco. Here, you are just about 1 hour away from Manuel Antonio.
Upon arrival to Villa Perezoso, you will be greeted by our warm staff and a welcome cocktail! Once given the introduction to the villa, you will settle into your relaxing first night at your beautiful tropical villa. Perhaps a dip in the pool, dinner with our chef or a soak in the roof-top Jacuzzi will be the perfect way to bring on this vacation in style!
Day 2: Manuel Antonio National Park
You are sure to wake up to the sound of monkeys or scarlet macaws. Morning coffee can be enjoyed while observing wildlife and taking in the view of the Manuel Antonio National Park. Once you are ready to head out, we think the perfect way to get your bearings is to take a private guided tour of the park. Here you can enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful beachfront national parks and observe a plethora of exotic wildlife species. After your tour, stay inside the park and enjoy the many beaches that are available to visit. You will surely feel like you are in paradise here! After your visit to the park, either head back to the villa for a relaxing rooftop sunset or perhaps you’ll want to visit one of our favorite sunset restaurants in town. Just ask our Concierge for the best travel tips and local hot-spots…
Day 3: Zipline Adventure
Ready for a bit of action? No vacation to Villa Perezoso is complete without a zip through the rainforest treetops. This is a favorite among many visitors and is sure to give you a thrill and put a smile on your face! Plus, you’ll have great photo opp’s to remember for many years to come. For those who prefer something a bit more mellow, there are plenty of other options to partake in, such as hiking, visiting the calm waters of the Biesanz Beach or simply relaxing poolside and enjoying the view. Either option you chose will be complete with great scenery. Afterward, you’ll once again be ready for sunset cocktails or for dinner with our chef at the villa. Time to sit back and allow our chef to pamper your every whim and provide you one of the best and freshest meals you’ve ever had!
Day 4: Surfing
Costa Rica is known for having great waves and for being a fantastic place to learn to surf, to continue practicing, or for those who are already expert surfers. With several different breaks and locations available just a few minutes from the villa, your concierge can help you determine which option is best for your group, and can line up a surf instructor for private surfing lessons or get board rentals for you. For those who don’t wish to engage in surfing, we can have a tent, chairs and a cooler set up for you so you can observe while kicking back on the beach!
Day 5: White Water Rafting
Manuel Antonio offers fantastic rafting in Class II or III rivers very nearby. A ¾ day or full day rafting trip is a great way to spend one of your vacation days, and comes complete with a chance to get out into the countryside and experience the excitement of rafting. This day is best combined with private chef services upon return to the villa, as you will be arriving back just in time for sunset!
Day 6: Catamaran Sunset Cruise
Enjoy the Manuel Antonio coastline from a different perspective. Catamaran cruises can be private or public, and offer a wonderful opportunity to get out on the water, do some snorkeling and cruise the coastline. Dolphins are often spotted as well as other sea creatures. The calm waters of the Manuel Antonio coast will lull you into utter relaxation as you soak up the beauty of the coastline! Once off the boat, you may want to head back to the villa for some pool time and then perhaps head out on the town for a farewell dinner!
Day 7: (A Regretful) Departure from Paradise
All vacations must come to an end, and your departure will be as sad for our villa staff as it will be for you having to leave paradise! After a farewell with our staff, one of our private vans will pick you up and take you back to the airport, or you can also choose to take a private or regional flight back. No doubt, everyone at Villa Perezoso will be sad to see you go, but will look forward to seeing you back again soon!
October is here and the days are starting to get cooler up
North. Leaves are changing colors and starting
to fall, and ideas for the upcoming holidays are starting to take shape… As you start to plan for this year’s holiday
season, you may be ready to consider travel, and perhaps even an exotic and
relaxing getaway to the beautiful beaches and rainforest of Costa Rica. So whether you want to come for the holidays
or at a different time, we have some exciting offers to share with you, and
some fun travel ideas also!
Amid these crazy COVID times, we could all use a little
peace and benefit from the healing
effects of nature. And with Costa
Rica now open to all US states (starting on November 1st), who
wouldn’t enjoy a stroll on a quiet beach with the sound of palm trees moving in
the wind and monkeys playing in the background?
Or how about an exciting zip through the rainforest canopy to energize
your senses? Sometimes just a change of
scenery is enough to provide us that much-needed break we all need from our
daily stresses, and from the intensity of 2020.
Well, at Villa Perezoso, in the beautiful town of Manuel
Antonio, just minutes from the Manuel Antonio National Park, there is no shortage
of breathtaking views. Morning coffee on
the terraces of the villa will offer you a chance to observe Costa Rica’s
wildlife at its finest, and will be sure to wipe away all your stresses. And if a tranquil morning didn’t do it, then perhaps
an afternoon cocktail and dip in the pool, complete with the sound of scarlet
macaws flying overhead, will provide you the perfect backdrop to sink into utter
and complete relaxation. On the other hand, if you are more prone to getting
out and about on vacation, we have a great list of private
activities that are the ideal way to stay active, while practicing social
distancing and enjoying the Great Outdoors of Costa Rica!
So, with R&R and a little adventure in mind, as well as
a desire for a change of scenery, we are offering the following reservation specials for this 2020 Fall/2021
Winter Season:
Thanksgiving
Week: $7,200*
Christmas Week: $12,950*
New Year’s Week: $12,950*
*Includes Chef for up to 3 meals daily.
Cost of food is separate.
For those who don’t want to travel over the holidays, but
are interested in a little getaway before 2020 ends, we are offering the
following special for our beautiful villa from now through December 19th!
October-December 19,
2020: $4,950/Week*
*Excludes Thanksgiving. Does not include Chef, but can be added-on.
And finally, for those who are interested in visiting us
after the holidays for a Winter escape, we are offering 10% Off all reservations for
Winter 2021, excluding Easter Week,
for reservations booked now through December 19th!
As always, our rates include our pre-arrival travel planning
and on-site concierge services! So if you have questions on why
you need to visit Costa Rica on your next vacation, or need help with
travel ideas or activity planning, our reservations and travel team are on-hand
to assist you! Remember that at Villa
Perezoso, we offer a place where you can relax and decompress in total privacy,
while enjoying the surrounding tropical beauty of Manuel Antonio’s rainforest
and beaches.
September 15, 2020 celebrated 199 years of Costa Rica’s independence.
This was a joyous day across the country and for Costa Ricans all over the
world, as this day symbolizes freedom, democracy and a culture of peace. This day is celebrated with several popular
traditions, and this year was no exception.
Here is a look at a few of these traditions and their important meaning
to Costa Rica:
“Faroles” Parade
“Faroles” or lanterns are lit up on the eve of September 14th, the day before Independence Day as a symbol of freedom. This tradition dates back to the year 1821, when at 6pm Costa Rica’s Independence Act was signed, giving them autonomy. On this day many years ago, Costa Ricans lit lanterns and joined together to sign the National Anthem to celebrate. Since then, this has become a tradition that school children, families, government offices and homes across the country all observe. Beautiful and elaborate lanterns are often part of children’s homework the week working up to Independence Day, and these are usually boasted at parades that are held in each town. The night of the lanterns is a huge Costa Rican tradition and party. This year it was celebrated virtually.
The
National Anthem and the Costa Rican Flag
The lyrics to Costa Rica’s National Anthem are always sung
in the homes of Costa Ricans. The National Anthem is not a war song; rather, it
tells the story of a democratic people, of farmers who have not experienced
great conflicts and of a peaceful nation.
The national flag faithfully expresses the life of Costa Rica,
characterized by always seeking conciliation, as well as by the virtuous
purpose that guides its destiny. Mini
Costa Rican flags are proudly adorned in homes and in people’s car the weeks
leading up to the holiday, and towns are all festively decorated with large
flags on lamp posts and traffic lights. It’s a lovely sight to see!
Long
Weekends to the Beach
No Independence Day in Costa Rica would be complete without a
visit to the beach, and this year was no exception. In spite of Covid and its restrictions,
families all loaded into their cars and took road trips to nearby beaches. Social distancing and remaining in bubbles
was enforced, but this certainly didn’t take away from the fun of being
gathered at the beach, having BBQ’s, playing soccer and soaking up the sunshine
and fresh air. Our very own Manuel
Antonio National Park and beaches were very busy this past weekend and we were
thrilled to receive responsible visitors from all over the country!
All of us at Villa Perezoso have a great love for Costa Rica, and are proud to reside here and be able to share this wonderful piece of paradise with our guests. This is a country that promotes peace and honors family and relationships in a way that we should all take note. We look forward to sharing the beauty of Costa Rica and its wonderful people with you soon. We are happy to announce that the following US States are now allowed in to Costa Rica: New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Maine, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Michigan, Rhode Island, Wyoming, Arizona and New Mexico. Starting on October 1st, California residents will also be allowed to visit. Additional states will also be added at that time. If you would like to visit, please contact us, and we will be happy to help you plan your next visit…
Ocean View from pool at Villa Perezoso, Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
We are
thrilled to announce that as of September 1st, Costa Rica will start
allowing tourists from 6 U.S. states:
New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont and Maine. The
Costa Rican Health Department is currently reviewing Colorado, Massachusetts
and Pennsylvania to add to the list, and other states are planned to be
included soon as well. While this is a limited start, it is a good sign that
soon we will be able to host guests from the US again, and start doing what we
love to do: helping to create amazing memories for visitors from all over the
world to Villa Perezoso. Our villa family and the rain forest of Manuel Antonio
have missed everyone!
Currently, the Costa
Rica Tourism Board, called the “ICT” among locals, is expecting about four
flights a week from the airports of Newark (EWR), La Guardia (LGA) and John F.
Kennedy (JFK). As Costa Rica has kept its borders closed to U.S. tourists since
mid-March due to the pandemic, this is wonderful news to us all, and we couldn’t
wait to share! Tourism is the heart of Costa Rica, and it’s one of the country’s
biggest industries. It comprises 8.2% of its GDP, and the United States is the country
from which most people visit annually. More than 1.3 million tourists
came to Costa Rica from the United States in 2019. Costa Rica started
allowing tourist from the United Kingdom, the European Union and Canada on
August 1st. They later added additional countries to the list, and
now allow a total of 45 countries, including the U.S. We can’t wait to start
hosting groups again!
There are several requirements for entry to the
country, such as having travel insurance that covers COVID-19 and also having a
negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of your flight, but these may ease up or
change as time goes on. For now, here is a complete
list of entry requirements:
Epidemiological Health Pass Form: Complete the form at: https://salud.go.cr.
Negative RT-PCR diagnostic test: The sample must have been taken within 48 hours of travel to Costa Rica.
Proof of Residency from allowed US States or other Authorized Countries: Passengers from the US must prove through their driver’s license that they live in one of the six authorized states.
Traveler’s Medical Insurance: The policy can be international or purchased in Costa Rica. If the policy has international coverage, it must contain the following conditions:
Must be issued in English or Spanish
Effectiveness of the policy during the visit to Costa Rica
Guaranteed coverage of medical expenses in the event of becoming ill with the pandemic COVID-19 disease while in Costa Rica, for at least USD $50,000 (fifty thousand United States Dollars).
Includes minimum coverage of US $2,000 for lodging expenses issues due to the pandemic.
Some other important things to be aware of for travel to Costa Rica is that upon landing in-country, travelers must wear face protection and comply with the protocols of the air terminal with regard to physical distancing, disinfection of carpets, taking temperature readings, and any other sanitary instructions. Both the San José (SJO) and Liberia Airports (LIR) have been working hard for the last several months to make the welcoming of tourists safe, and as easy and stress-free as possible, so visitors can feel confident while traveling to Costa Rica.
Aside from entry requirements, Costa Rica has re-opened allows all outdoor tourist activities, such as zip lining, national parks, surfing, jet skiing, white water rafting, sunset tours, waterfall tours, yoga, pilates and paddle boarding as well as much more! Some of these activities offer private options for your group. For more information on private tour options, check out these activities. Face coverings are required for indoor public areas, so it is a good idea to always have a mask in hand for check-in at the different tours!
If you would like ideas for vacation itineraries or have any other travel related questions, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’re excited to welcome you back. Everyone at Villa Perezoso and the beautiful rain forest of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica awaits you!
Mother’s
Day in Costa Rica is a national holiday and is normally celebrated every year
on August 15th. This year in order to boost national tourism, the
government has moved the official holiday to Monday, August 17th so
that locals, along with international visitors, can enjoy a long weekend to
celebrate. Costa Rica is a strong matriarchal
society and this holiday weekend will be spent like so many others; Either by
sharing a big family meal at home with some of Costa Rica’s most authentic
dishes, by taking Mom out to eat for her favorite food, or perhaps by taking a trip
to the beach! The latter is certainly a favorite
among both urbanites and those who live on the coast, and no doubt after being
in lock-down for several months, everyone is enjoying getaways to the beach to
soak up the rays of sunshine and the feeling of wet sand on their feet. In addition to relaxing strolls on the beach,
many families will take adventurous hikes through the rain forest in search of the
exotic wildlife Costa Rica offers so abundantly. So, in anticipation of Costa
Rican Mother’s Day, we wanted to honor several of the animal species special to
us here in Manuel Antonio. Of course,
there are many, but chose four of our favorite mammals, and started with the
revered sloth. After
all, Villa Perezoso, or “The Sloth Villa” was named after these beloved animals! And no less special to us are the 3 species
of monkeys commonly seen in the trees surrounding Villa Perezoso.
Sloths
Just like the other baby mammals, sloths prefer to stay with their mothers while they are young. There is a very close bond between
mothers and babies, and baby sloths love to hang on their mother’s fur. Baby sloths will cling
to their mother’s belly until they are able to feed themselves, which can take
anywhere from five weeks to six months. Once they have learned to
feed themselves and they stop dangling from their mother, little sloths will
continue to stay alongside their mother for two to four years, depending on their species. These amazing
creatures have a life span of about 20 years and spend most of their life
sleeping! Sloths have a very low metabolic
rate and therefore sleep about 20 hours per day and only travel about 40 yards
per day amid the rain forest canopy. Since
they don’t move much, it is always a very exciting sight to spot a sloth with
her baby in the Manuel Antonio National Park. Baby and momma sloths can often
be seen right outside of Villa Perezoso enjoying some bites off of one of their
favorite trees, the Guarumo tree, which
are planted all around the villa.
Howler Monkeys
Mother howler monkeys care for their young for about 12
months after they are born.
Female offspring remain in their
natal group and therefore stay
with their mother long after
they are independent. The average age of howler monkeys ranges from
between 15 and 20 years old. These
fascinating creatures are considered the largest Central American monkey, and
they live in the upper canopy of forests and love to be alongside the coast,
making Costa Rica an ideal location for them. Howler monkeys are not especially active
compared to other species of Central and South American monkeys. They spend a
lot of their time just hanging out, sitting on their branches with other
members of their group, which range in size between 10 and 20 members, but can occasionally
have up to 40. While visiting Villa
Perezoso, you will surely hear the deep guttural sound of these monkeys echoing
amidst the surrounding rainforest! This
howling allows the monkeys to locate each other without expending too much energy
on moving or risking physical confrontation with another troop. You may even
lucky enough to spot a momma howler with her baby!
Squirrel Monkeys
Female squirrel monkeys are responsible for almost all
infant care. Females within a group exhibit birth synchrony and increased
vigilance during the birth season because newborns and infants are particularly
susceptible to predators. In some groups, males also vigorously protect infants
from predators, but in other groups,
where males are on the periphery of the social group, they exhibit no infant
protection. For the first month of life, infants remain in constant physical
contact with their mother, usually being carried on her back because they are
too large and impede movement if they are carried on the front. This is a
common sight in Manuel Antonio where squirrel monkeys live happily amid the
rain forest. During the first five to
seven weeks, infants begin to leave their mother to explore the surrounding
environment and interactions between mother and infant become increasingly
fewer. Infants become independent during the second through fourth months of
life, spending more time with peers or play groups. Some groups are fully
weaned by four months, but others are not fully weaned until 18 months of
age. It’s always a fantastic site to
see these monkeys troupes with their active youngsters jumping from tree to
tree!
White-Faced Monkeys
Last but
not least, comes The White-Faced or “capuchin” monkey. This monkey is often seen in Manuel Antonio
and is known for being “ornery” because it often throws fruits down from trees
or hisses and spits on human observers! The
capuchin lives in troops that can exceed 20 animals and include both males and
females, three quarters of which are females.
The White-Faced are perceived as cantankerous, but actually they are
just highly intelligent and social animals. They are the largest-brained, smartest
monkeys in the Americas. Capuchins are remarkable in many ways, but in the
field of motherhood and child care, they stand out. For starters, they implement a type of “daycare”
system among group members. After a
capuchin infant is born, members will compete to have a turn with the
baby. They will inspect and care for
the baby whenever the mother will permit.
Other group members will even act as “babysitters” and carry the infant
for the mother. Secondly, babies are
known to be regularly nursed by females in the group other than their own
mothers. Finally, the White-Faced monkey
is extremely tolerant of juvenile curiosity and encourages their playfulness and
interaction with other members as they get older. Certainly an interesting comparison for human
parents! Aside from the interesting
facts of parenthood, the White-Faced Monkey is revered for having independently
evolved many traits like tool use that were once regarded as uniquely human, including
rubbing plants over its body in an apparent use of herbal medicines as well as using
tools as weapons and for getting to food.
These are
just a few of our favorite mammals that call home to the surrounding forest
around Villa Perezoso. Of course there
is so much more wildlife surrounding the villa and in Manuel Antonio. Toucans,
Scarlet Macaws and other reptiles abound as do so many other jungle
animals. If you would like to experience
some of these animals in person, contact
us for information on reserving a visit to Villa Perezoso!
At Villa Perezoso, we have implemented the highest sanitary cleaning standards and when you are ready to travel, we will continue to offer a place of solace and rest for those who wish to spend time together in a secluded and exclusive tropical villa with dedicated staff and complete privacy. We look forward to hosting you again in the near future!
