Wilderness Travel

Costa Rica Private Journey

Adventuring in Nature’s Playground

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Federico Alban

If you want to know what the Pura Vida lifestyle looks like, look no further than Federico Alban. Though he lived in Spain, Israel, and the United States from age seven to nineteen, Federico is a Costa Rican local at heart and welcomes Wilderness Travel guests to experience all the country has to offer. He has led trips for us since 2003, and says, "Costa Rica is all about the Pura Vida lifestyle. When guests leave, they are not guests anymore, they are now friends." Frederico is currently pursuing a degree in natural resource management from Universidad Estatal a Distancia. When he is not guiding, Frederico is usually riding his mountain bike or photographing wildlife, two of his favorite pastimes.

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Client Testimonials


Federico was delightful, eager to make us comfortable and informed, and well versed in the flora, fauna, and history of the country.
— Carolyn S., Carlsbad, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is one of the best guides I have ever met! He was exceptionally knowledgable, very friendly, and made sure that everyone was having a great time. He adjusted our schedule to provide experiences that everyone would enjoy (thanks for a trip to the chocolate shops!). He had such a positive attitude, great sense of humor, and he really seemed to enjoy being with our group. He made our trip so very memorable and I would give him my highest recommendation!
— Anne S., Orlando, FL
Costa Rica Private Journey
Federico's knowledge of the rainforest, flora, fauna, and culture is impressive. I was fascinated by his explanations of the plants, birds, trees, frogs, and everything. He balanced his instruction with personal stories and a sense of humor that we all enjoyed. I especially appreciated that he took us to local places of interest like lunch at the farm and the coffee grower and did not drop us off at cheap tourist stores. Federico is an exceptional guide and protector of balance of Nature.
— Stephanie T., Tucson, AZ
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was an outstanding guide who was extremely knowledgable about almost everything at the sites we visited. He generously shared with us the history and customs of Costa Rica. He was always helpful, warm, and engaging with a great since of humor.
— Werner J., Palo Alto, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is the reason to go to Costa Rica with Wilderness Travel. One of the top trip leaders we've encountered—passionate, knowledgeable, funny, professional, and patient. He was always available and engaging. I would happily travel with him again.
— Jo L., Santa Barbara, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was a naturalist's guide's dream! He imparted so much knowledge in a helpful, fun, and interesting way.
— Marcia M., Newburyport, MA
Costa Rica Wildlife
We all loved him. Wonderful person and leader. Such enthusiasm and knowledge.
— Joan O., St Louis Park, MN
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was EXCEPTIONAL! He kept us safe, informed, and maximized our wonderful adventure in Costa Rica.
— Bob S., Stockton, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was a terrific leader/host in his country. His deep knowledge and interest in the wildlife and the culture and society of Costa Rica was just wonderful.
— Matey S., Cambridge, MA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Great leader! He made the trip. Attention to detail, incredible naturalist knowledge, familiarity with the logistics of the itinerary, wonderful sense of humor, and boundless energy are just some of the traits that make Federico so good at this job.
— Jeanne F., Santa Fe, NM
Costa Rica Wildlife
Excellent leader! Always energetic, passionate, and knowledgeable about everything.
— Barbara K., Flower Mound, TX
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was the trip leader from heaven—extremely knowledgable and very personable. He could talk for 3 hours and make it all interesting.
— Barbara L., New York, NY
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is first rate in every way—smart, very knowledgable about the wildlife, endlessly patient and client sensitive, entertaining and friendly, and manages logistics with minimal hustle but great efficiency.
— Betsy S., Kennebunkport, ME
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is one of the best of the many guides I've had over the years on many trips all over the world.
— Vic K., Washington, DC
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is one of the best guides I've ever had. Very professional, great sense of humor, and he did everything he could to make sure each person on the trip enjoyed themselves.
— Sylvia B., Canterbury, NH
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is the best of the best, just fantastic. His knowledge of flora and fauna, Costa Rican history, and ecology seemed limitless. And he had a great sense of humor.
— Dave M., Jackson, WY
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is a gem, the best trip leader I have ever had. Incredible enthusiasm, warmth, concern for the participants, knowledge of wildlife. So upbeat and delightful to be around.
— Judy H., Washington, DC
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is the perfect guide—organized, knowledgeable, caring, patient, charming, and incredibly energetic. He added so much to the trip.
— Peggy W., Baltimore, MD
Costa Rica Wildlife
I've been on many trips and had many guides, and Federico is the best I've encountered. So knowledgeable and uniformly friendly, warm, and enthusiastic, and genuine in his concern for us and the environment.
— Julia M., Washington, DC
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was amazing. His knowledge of Costa Rica ecology, flora, and fauna was extraordinary and his genial nature made our adventures even better.
— Dr. Leila G., Maplewood, NJ
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was superb, personable, tactful, thoughtful. The best guide I have ever had.
— Dr. Judith K., Brick, NJ
Costa Rica Wildlife
We appreciated Federico's organization, knowledge, sense of humor, and passion for nature and his country.
— Dusty C., Snoqualmie, WA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was outstanding throughout. Extremely knowledgeable, used his time with everyone appropriately, sensitive to everyone's needs/interests, and always accommodating.
— Jill G., Wilmette, IL
Costa Rica Wildlife
I can't say enough about how terrific Federico was as our trip leader. His knowledge, understanding, caring, and leadership made it a great trip for us.
— Mark H., Wilmette, IL
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is both extremely knowledgable and passionate about his country and the environment. A great trip leader.
— David B., San Francisco, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico responded thoughtfully to each person's needs and expectations. My experience of Costa Rica was deeper and broader and more critical because of his expertise.
— Catherine B., Seattle, WA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was extraordinary and, although the trip would have been very enjoyable in any event, he raised it to a higher level of excellence. He was extremely knowledgeable about Costa Rican history and politics as well as about all things flora and fauna. He has a delightful, upbeat personality, and his enthusiasm is contagious. He is a very special person. Bravo, Federico!!
— Roger & Elaine B., Roslyn Heights, NY
Costa Rica Wildlife
Could not have asked for a more knowledgeable and personable guide!
— Margaret H., Falls Church, VA
Costa Rica Wildlife
I can't imagine a better guide than Frederico. In many ways, he MADE the trip. He was extremely knowledgeable, took excellent care of us, and was FUN! He was exceptional...off the charts...in every way.
— Gigi S., La Jolla, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Frederico was FABULOUS. He worked constantly to explain all we were seeing and making sure we had everything we needed. We all loved him.
— Berkeley H., Greensboro, NC
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico's knowledge of culture, environment, history, etc. is exceptional, and his ability to spot animals and direct viewers is remarkable. He has a lovely temperament and is charming and forthcoming with comments on all aspects of Costa Rican life.
— Sally S., Oakland, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was the best—warm, related, extremely helpful, was always available, and made sure all our needs were met.
— Barbara P., New York, NY
Costa Rica Wildlife
Frederico was outstanding. His level of knowledge of birds, animals, plants, and ecosystems was extensive, and he has a very engaging manner in sharing it. We learned so much at every location, and his enthusiasm made each day a pleasure.
— Rami C., Newtown, PA
Costa Rica Wildlife
What a smart and personable guy. He did a great job moving us through a wonderful experience, allowing just the right amount of time for everything and listening to each traveler's special interests.
— Linda K., Berkeley, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was awesome...very kind, patient, and knowledgeable. He made the trip so enjoyable!
— Dorothy P., Las Vegas, NV
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was a star in every respect, with excellent knowledge of the fauna and flora and a terrific personality to match.
— Phillip M., Hampshire, England
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is an impressive ambassador for Wilderness Travel. Part logistics officer and tour guide, he is an organizational treasure.
— Ray B., Springfield, OR
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico made the trip the best. His knowledge and language skills were only matched by his outgoing peronality, patience, and caring for each of us as individuals.
— Joyce C., Blue Bell, PA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico Alban is a wonderful guide with outstanding people and interpersonal skills. Excellent understanding of the wildlife and culture of Costa Rica. He's one of the best!
— Stephen W., San Diego, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is by far the best guide we have ever had. He is passionate about what he does and very sensitive to the needs and expectations of every trip participant.
— Miriam F., Englewood, NJ
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was an excellent guide with deep knowledge, good communication skills, and great interpersonal skills.
— Karin W., Charlottesville, VA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico Alban is a wonderful guide with outstanding people and interpersonal skills, and an excellent understanding of the wildlife and culture of Costa Rica. He's one of the best!
— Stephen W., San Diego, CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Our guide, Federico, made the trip the best. His knowledge and language skills were only matched by his outgoing peronality, patience, and caring for each of us as individuals.
— Joyce C., Blue Bell, PA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico is one of the most amazing individuals we have ever met. He has a genuine concern for everyone and displayed an incredible extent of knowledge, compassion, and leadership.
— Christine F., Costa Rica Adventure
Federico Alban is a particularly special and gifted guide whose presence enhanced our enjoyment of the trip.
— Lise J., Portland, OR
Federico Alban was outstanding. He was engaging, warm, attentive, always on time, and broad based in his knowledge. He contributed to my affection for Costa Rica.
— Grant M., Reno, NV
WT is lucky to have someone as expert as a naturalist and Trip Leader as Federico. His enthusiasm shines through.
— Aviva S., Brookline MA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was energetic, enthusiastic, and excited about the treasures of his country, which he shared with all of us. It was a real pleasure to be in his company.
— Virginia R., Orlando FL
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico had excellent knowledge and lots of enthusiasm. He was very in tune with the needs of all the participants. He was lots of fun to be with.
— Patricia O., Pinole CA
Costa Rica Wildlife
Federico was outstanding. Very knowledgeable, friendly, funny, etc. He took care of issues before they became problems, and was a blast to hang out with for a week.
— Sharon S., Cambridge MA
Costa Rica Adventure

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