He is considered a pioneer of rafting, eco-lodges and eco-tourism in Costa Rica, Michael Kaye a native of New York, passed away in the country that welcomed him and became his home since 1978.

Michael Kaye fell in love with Costa Rica 40 years ago, and since then he dedicated his life to promoting the natural wonders of this country. Him and his wife founded the company Costa Rica Expeditions, initially as a white water rafting company in the fall of 1978 with a mission: “Our goal is to create unique travel experiences that transcend conventional sightseeing and travel. Our dream is to promote the type of tourism which is mutually beneficial and nourishing to both the visitor and the visited.”

Kaye also build small ecolodges in Tortuguero, Monteverde and Corcovado.

Today, Costa Rica Expeditions is a tour company that offers unique and unforgettable personalized experiences.

“He changed Costa Rica! He brought in competitive kayaking, supported turtle conservation and the people of Tortuguero, he changed ecotourism and offered unparalleled authentic experiences of traveling there. And yet, safety was first!”,

shared Anastasia Lipske in Facebook with regards to the passing of Kaye.

In October 2007 Michael was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Adventure Travel Trade Association.

Kaye passed away at the age of 76, he is survived by his wife Yolanda and their son and daughter and three grandchildren.