Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Puerto Jiménez

Immerse yourself in the heart of the rainforest at Lapa Rios Lodge. The vast property with 17 bungalows designed as safari-style lodges made from palm fronds and fallen trees puts you in the action of Costa Rica’s natural world. You’ll find several animals and hundreds of tropical birds; wildlife is so abundant guests are recommended to turn off the lights when they go to dinner to avoid attracting them to their lodges. Loungers and lush vegetation surround a large, heated swimming pool and a small on-site spa in a hut. There is a restaurant, a wine cellar, and a lovely terrace with jungle views. The staff are passionate about conservation and the local nature and are happy to help travelers experience a memorable vacation. Families are welcome, but children must be over the age of six.

Pros

• You’ll get to stay in the heart of a rainforest where you’ll find several animals and exotic birds on the property.
• There is a heated pool in the gardens.
• You can relax in the spa hut with a massage.
• Hotel staff include a team of naturalist guides who can arrange excursions like hikes and nocturnal wildlife walks.

Cons

• The property is on a steep incline, which might be challenging for wheelchair users or guests with mobility needs.

Authenticity

This safari-style lodge opened in 1993 and has 17 bungalows spread across a rainforest. After major renovations in 2019, the property got a makeover, with buildings made from fallen trees, palm fronds, and thatched roofs, giving it a look that wouldn’t feel out of place in a wilderness retreat in Africa.

Location

Lapa Rios Lodge, perched within a 1000-acre (404 ha) private nature reserve, is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts in Costa Rica's wild Osa Peninsula. Its location off the beaten path ensures a serene and private stay, with a complimentary shuttle service to the nearby surfers' paradise, Playa Pan Dulce.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The lodge offers 17 guestrooms, each with a fusion of comfort and authenticity. Every bungalow has a furnished balcony overlooking the ocean and is designed to harness the cooling ocean breezes, with special canopies above the beds for a restful and serene sleep. The lodge also offers villas and suites, some equipped with private plunge pools and outdoor showers. These accommodations create a perfect blend of comfort and the wilderness, with floor-to-ceiling screened walls and wraparound decks that allow you to soak in the scenic surroundings.

Wildlife

This waterfront hotel is a gateway to the untouched rainforest, home to an impressive array of animals, including over 300 bird species, iguanas, sloths, and all four species of monkeys native to Costa Rica. The hotel's namesake, the lapa (scarlet macaw), is often spotted around the grounds.

Amenities

Lapa Rios Lodge offers on-site spa services in a massage hut with rainforest views, a large heated pool surrounded by trees, and a yoga deck for a rejuvenating retreat. The pool is surrounded by trees packed with wildlife like toucans and monkeys, and several lounge chairs and a poolside bar. Free and secure parking is offered. The incline of the grounds makes it challenging for those with limited mobility, but there are some more accessible bungalows close to the entrance.

Family-Friendliness

Although families are welcome to stay on the property, children must be at least six years old. There are no specific amenities for families with children.

Other Highlights

The restaurant, Brisa Azul, serves multicourse, all-inclusive gourmet meals with a strong focus on local and organic produce. The lodge also features a separate bar pavilion near the pool, making it convenient to enjoy a drink while lounging. The lodge's passionate staff, including a team of expert naturalist guides, offer excursions like interpretive hikes, nocturnal wildlife walks, and bird-watching tours.