THE REGION

Hacienda Pinilla is located in the province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, which measures 3,915 square miles (10,141 square kilometers). The province's topography extends from plains to mountains, which mostly hover at low to mid altitudes, although some reach higher peaks. Hacienda Pinilla's terrain is generally flat, and is rich in flora and fauna that are well protected thanks to the hacienda's commitment to sustainable development.

A number of large trees grow within Hacienda Pinilla. Many are over one hundred years old, and their foliage provides shade and food for the birds and animals native to the region. Some trees lose their leaves completely during specific times of year, and then spring to life again just a few months later. Others, like the Kapok tree, have a rough appearance, covered in thorns, but their wood is one of the most highly prized on the local market.

The diversity of animals at Hacienda Pinilla allows visitors to experience the excitement of spotting monkeys, birds and marine creatures. Due to the hacienda's location just a few feet above sea level, the Guanacastecan coastline offers a warm and dry climate. We are privileged and thankful to have access to tropical flowers and fruits throughout the year. At Hacienda Pinilla, there are many opportunities to enjoy nature.

Ocean sports are one of the region's biggest attractions. Thousands of tourists arrive specifically to test our waves and waters, and choose to go surfing, ocean kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, or just to take a leisurely boat ride. Some visitors become enchanted with the beaches that border Hacienda Pinilla, and are dazzled by the splendor of our sunsets.

Due to its natural beauty, this region is considered part of Costa Rica's "Gold Coast," which is known for its bird and wildlife watching – monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, sloths, raccoons and other animals make their home here. For those who don't want to miss a thing, guided tours are also available to volcanoes, hot springs, mangrove forests, and the rainforest or dry forest. At Hacienda Pinilla, guests also have access to tennis and golf.

Guanacaste is home to eight national parks, which are protected areas located throughout Costa Rica. These include Barra Honda National Park, which protects 42 caverns, only 19 of which have been explored; Guanacaste National Park; Las Baulas National Marine Park, located on Playa Grande, where leatherback turtles come to nest; Palo Verde National Park; Rincon de la Vieja National Park; Santa Rosa National Park; Tenorio Volcano National Park; and Arenal Volcano National Park, home to one of the most active and most spectacular volcanoes in Costa Rica. The region also hosts seven wildlife refuges: Tamarindo, Junquillal Bay, Ostional, Curú, Bolaños Island, Lomas de Barbudal, and Cabo Blanco.

Two airports serve this region: the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport and a smaller regional airport, which is located near Tamarindo and welcomes small aircraft. For those who prefer to drive, the highway that connects San Jose and Guanacaste is in good condition. Three private ground transportation companies also provide daily service from the capital.

In Guanacaste, visitors will find dentists, general physicians, private ambulance services, a selection of banks, pharmacies, lawyers and accountants, supermarkets, appliance and furniture stores, taxi services, restaurants, veterinarians, mechanics, and more. There are two public hospitals, one in Nicoya and another in Liberia; both will treat tourists in an emergency.

The culture of Guanacaste reflects the region's ancestral inheritance, both in its traditions and cuisine. Local dishes feature corn, beans and rice, all of which are produced in the area. Interestingly, the Nicoya Peninsula is also one of the world's "Blue Zones", or areas in which people live longer and better quality lives. Scientists believe that the region's diet, which is based on grains and fresh fruits, combined with physical activity, are two important contributing factors to this phenomenon.

Marimba is a traditional instrument of the region; its joyous melodies accompany folkloric dancers dressed in multicolored costumes. Here, every town's festivities are events of high importance. During festival times, typical dishes are on offer, and people celebrate with bull riding, Guanacaste style. Friendly locals are always willing to offer a smile to strangers, to lend a helping hand, and to share their home with visitors.