La Fortuna in 1 Day for Seniors - Introduction to the history and evolution of native stingless bees
In Collaboration with ABG. Updated on February 16, 2026.
Discover the fascinating world of stingless bees near La Fortuna. This 1.5-hour guided visit to the meliponary introduces native stingless bee species, offers direct honey tastings at the hives, a walk through a small medicinal-plant garden, a natural honey facial mask demonstration, and a closing reflection on ancestral uses and pollinator conservation.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with ABG, inspired by the tour Stingless Bee Tour: Sacred Honey and Ancestral Medicine. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Introduction to the history and evolution of native stingless bees
- Guided walk identifying up to 10 native Costa Rican bee species
- Tasting of monofloral and multifloral Costa Rican honeys
- Visit to a local medicinal plant garden and honey blend tasting
- Natural honey facial mask demonstration and closing reflection
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet at the meliponary near Los Ángeles de La Fortuna for a 90-minute educational visit focused on native stingless bees, honey tasting, and traditional medicinal plants.
History and Evolution of Bees
Short seated introduction covering the origin and evolution of bees with emphasis on native stingless species and their ecological importance.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to find seating and avoid standing at the start.
- If you use mobility aids, let the guide know on arrival so the talk can be positioned near accessible seating.
- Carry a light sweater—morning temperatures near the gardens can be cooler in shaded areas.
Walk to Identify Native Bees
Guided stroll around the meliponary to locate and observe native stingless bee colonies and learn identification cues for different species.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes with modest tread; paths are natural and may be uneven.
- The walk is gentle but includes short standing periods—bring a folding walking stick if helpful.
- Avoid strong perfumes or scented lotions on the tour day to reduce insect attraction.
Tropical Honey Tasting
Taste a curated selection of monofloral and multifloral Costa Rican honeys sampled directly at the base of the hives to appreciate flavor and properties.
Tips from local experts:
- Tasting portions are small; if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, notify the guide before sampling.
- Bring bottled water if you prefer to cleanse the palate between samples.
- Seats will be available nearby—ask for assistance if you need a chair during the tasting.
Medicinal Plant Garden
Visit a small garden showcasing local medicinal plants; learn about their traditional uses and taste a special blend of healing honeys.
Tips from local experts:
- The garden paths are short but may include natural steps—move at a comfortable pace and ask for pauses as needed.
- If you have plant sensitivities, inform the guide before the garden tour.
- Wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen) if sections of the garden are exposed to direct sun.
Natural Honey Facial Mask
Demonstration and optional application of a simple honey-based facial mask using natural ingredients to experience honey's nourishing properties.
Tips from local experts:
- Participation is optional—if you prefer not to join, a shaded seating area will be provided.
- If you have sensitive skin or known allergies, decline the application and observe instead; notify the guide beforehand.
- Bring a small towel or pack a travel wet wipe for easy cleanup after the mask.
Final Reflection and Farewell
Group reflection to share impressions and learnings; close the visit with gratitude for the bees and their role in ecosystems.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to ask the guide for additional resources or local recommendations related to pollinator conservation.
- If you need assistance returning to nearby lodging or transport, notify staff before departure.
- Take a few minutes to rehydrate and store any purchased honey carefully before travel.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Culture, Outdoor, Meal, Attraction, Experience, Break |
