The Local Costa Rica Travel Experts
Why book with Adventures Under the Sun? Because AUSun is a lot more than just a Costa Rica travel agency – we know the best places to visit in Costa Rica for outdoor enthusiasts that integrate cultural and nature experiences, thus creating unforgettable, personalized all-inclusive vacations touring the diverse natural landscape and unique characteristics of Costa Rica.
With a lifetime of guiding and adventure racing under our belts, the team at Adventures Under the Sun creates exceptional, incomparable, one-of-a-kind adventures in Costa Rica for groups of all kinds.
AUSUN’s founder, adventure athlete and Costa Rican, Mélida Barbee, has a strong passion to share the joy and health benefits of being active in nature, and she loves to share the path of human wellness through adventure travel. Mélida has been creating trips and guiding guests for over 20 years and has built up a network of partners that elevate and enrich the adventure experience.
Mélida and her team are seasoned guides and athletes ready to kayak the whitewater, teach you how to surf a gorgeous wave or snorkel alongside you to explore a spectacular reef. We will zipline with you across the forest, look for Howler monkeys and birds along the trail, visit volcanoes and caves, and teach you all about Costa Rica along the way. It’s a deeper, richer Costa Rican experience that you, your peers and your family will carry with you for a lifetime.
Meet the Team
AUSun’s staff consists of a variety of amazing local professionals in environmental and outdoor education, travel, and sports. Our trip leaders are young, bilingual adults with CPR, WFR, First Aid and ICT Guide Certifications. Our shared values, philosophies, and passion for the Costa Rican outdoors is reflected in the success of the trips we lead and operate.
Mélida Barbee
Founder, Director, Guide, & Adventure Mentor
Mélida Barbee founded AUSun in 2001 after working in the local, environmental conservation sector. She later led students and adults on adventures throughout Costa Rica and the United States for 15 years. As a dedicated and competitive athlete, a concerned environmentalist and passionate outdoorsman, she chose a path to share experiences that sharpen and engage our senses and make life beat at a richer tempo.
Reservations Assistant
Adventure Mentor and Experience Leader
Adventure Mentor
Trip Leader and Surf Instructor
Trip Leader
Trip Leader
Surf Instructor
Surf Instructor
Surf Instructor
Keystone Montessori School
All the safety standards were met, and I never felt at any time that safety was compromised. The leaders were well qualified and went above and beyond.
Keystone Montessori School
Telluride Mountain School
Great trip, the homestay and language program really allowed the students to engage in the language and culture. The Corcovado experience was unbelievable.
Telluride Mountain School