JUNGLE BOOKED

Adrenaline and relaxation mix for a wild time in Costa Rica, Stephen Jones finds

- Stephen Jones

Channelling my inner Tarzan, and yodelling nothing like him, I kicked off from the floor and zoomed through the rainforest canopy.

Soaring 300ft above valleys, streams and waterfalls with just a zipline rope and my bravado to keep me intact hadn't been on my bucket list for 2024, but it's one of the most exhilarating things I have ever done.

No Costa Rica trip would be complete without an adventure in its pristine rainforests - and the Buena Vista del Rincon hotel delivers the opportunity to enjoy just that with its seven zip lines.

This eco adventure park also offers such thrills as tubing, horse riding and the chance to visit natural hot springs powered by the nearby Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.

There I rotated around five different mineral-rich pool temperatures after covering myself in therapeutic mud - there's nothing quite like soaking in a natural hot tub surrounded by tropical jungle.

Many people want to go to Costa Rica for the beaches but aren't aware that in a country which is more wilderness than buildings, you can achieve a perfect balance of relaxation, adrenaline and nature. And it's now increasingly seen as a destination for family and kids, not just backpackers who want a "trip that goes beyond beaches and the guidebook".

With its vibrant wildlife, lush rainforests and stunning coastlines, this Central American gem is a must for any traveller looking for something a little different from a holiday.