President Mike Carter’s connection to Latin America began in early childhood when he arrived in Costa Rica at just two years old, the son of a fruit company executive. His upbringing unfolded across Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Ecuador—cultures that shaped a lifelong appreciation for place, people, and refined travel. After completing his education in the United States, Mike returned to Costa Rica to pursue his passion for hospitality and destination leadership. As the founder of Los Maestros DMC, he is dedicated to presenting Costa Rica through thoughtfully designed journeys that reflect the country’s natural beauty, authenticity, and bespoke travel excellence.
Sales Director Donya D. Carter’s connection to Costa Rica was cultivated early in life, growing up immersed in the region’s cultures alongside her brother. Time spent across Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Ecuador instilled a discerning eye for authenticity and elevated travel experiences. With over 25 years of leadership in luxury hospitality, travel technology, and international business development, Donya brings a sophisticated, globally informed perspective to every itinerary. She curates bespoke experiences, building trusted relationships with travel advisors and ensuring each journey is seamless, personalized, and defined by exceptional service.
Managing Director Pablo Céspedes has been immersed in Costa Rica’s tourism industry since 1988, beginning his career at the age of 18 with LACSA, Costa Rica’s national airline, following in the footsteps of his father. His professional journey spans more than 35 years and includes leadership roles across hotels, ecotourism specialists, and some of the country’s most respected inbound agencies. With extensive experience overseeing operations, reservations, groups, FIT travel, and sales, Pablo brings exceptional on-the-ground knowledge of Costa Rica. As Managing Director and partner at Los Maestros DMC, he ensures every journey is delivered with operational precision, local expertise, and unwavering service excellence.
Reservations Manager Elisa Tretti brings an international perspective to Los Maestros DMC, shaped by her European roots and lifelong connection to Costa Rica. Born in Italy and relocating to Costa Rica at the age of three, Elisa developed an early appreciation for global cultures and refined hospitality. She holds a degree in Hotel Management and a master’s degree in Strategic Management, complemented by a six-month internship at a five-star hotel in Doha. With three years of experience as a hotel reservations manager in Costa Rica before joining the Los Maestros team, Elisa ensures every detail is expertly coordinated, delivering seamless, well-orchestrated journeys defined by precision, care, and exceptional service.
At Los Maestros DMC, we believe every journey should feel like an epic adventure—and our story is no exception. With deep roots in Costa Rica’s tourism history, we’ve been helping travelers discover the magic of this remarkable country since 2017.
Founded by industry veterans Mike Carter and Pablo Céspedes, Los Maestros combines more than 25 years of hands-on expertise in luxury travel design and destination management. Mike, who first arrived in Costa Rica in 1967, and Pablo, who began working in tourism at age 19, bring both international perspective and local insight to every itinerary we create.
Why Travel with Los Maestros?
Our mission is simple:
To ensure every traveler we serve leaves Costa Rica with the same sense of wonder and awe that inspired us to make it our life’s work.
We are proud to be:
Licensed by the Costa Rican Tourism Board
Experts in custom, upscale travel planning
Specialists in seamless, multi-destination itineraries
Passionate locals with a global mindset
From luxury escapes for couples to immersive family adventures, incentive travel, and exclusive group experiences, we craft one-of-a-kind journeys tailored to your clients specific interests, style, and schedule.
What Sets Us Apart
Personalized Service: Every client is met at the airport with VIP treatment by bilingual staff—or even one of our founders. Your clients have direct access to our office 24 hours a day throughout their stay.
Unmatched Access: We have direct contracts with over 300 top-tier hotels, lodges, and service providers across Costa Rica—only recommending experiences we’ve personally vetted.
Local Insight: Our experienced driver-guides enrich your journey with stories, insights, and highlights of Costa Rica’s flora, fauna, and hidden gems along the way.
Tailored Itineraries: Whether you're dreaming of boutique hotels, private transfers, in country flights, or unique excursions, we turn your vision into a smooth, unforgettable experience.
Flexible Packages: Mix-and-match 3- or 4-day itineraries designed to help you explore as many regions and cultures of Costa Rica as time allows.
Attention to Detail: From dietary preferences to special needs, no request is too small. We coordinate with trusted partners to ensure your experience is effortless and personalized.
Our Services Include:
Custom-designed, luxury travel itineraries
Escorted packages & fixed departures
Private one-day excursions & adventure tours
Private bilingual (English-Spanish) transfers
Domestic charter & scheduled flights
Boat transfers & off-the-beaten-path access
You Dream It. We Deliver.
At Los Maestros DMC, your vision becomes reality—crafted with care, executed with precision, and often at a cost that might surprise you.
Discover Costa Rica the way it was meant to be experienced—with passion, purpose, and professionals who know it best.