Pacuare Lodge

The most magical places are rarely the easiest to get to, and Pacuare, part of the Boena group, is no exception - the journey here is a key part of the adventure. Guests whitewater raft down the mighty Pacuare River, past jagged cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, deep into the folds of the Talamanca Mountains and pristine virgin rainforest. Arriving at a lodge of such beauty it’s astonishing to think it’s also a serious eco hotel. Twenty exquisite suites, built from sustainable wood, have traditional thatched roofs woven by local Cabécar Indians, and are largely open-air, immersing guests in the jungle and its incredible wildlife. Hardwood floors, kingsize beds and gorgeous indoor/outdoor bathrooms set the tone; top-of-the-range villas also have spring-fed swimming pools and alfresco bathtubs. Food wows too, innovative farm-to-table cuisine made from their own organic produce. Activities - led by excellent local guides - include rainforest hikes to hidden waterfalls and visits to the Cabécar people. Also, bird watching (sun bittern, black-cheeked woodpeckers), a thrilling canopy zipline and canyoning. Back at the lodge, a beautiful saltwater infinity pool is perfect for a peaceful swim as the sun goes down and candles light the night. The lodge exists in symbiotic harmony with nature, its energy 100% renewable, and its tours carbon-neutral. Utterly inspiring all round.

Senderos Soul

With energy and vision owners Roberto and Luz have achieved something rare and wonderful: sophistication with soul, sustainability, sense of place and adventure. The attention to detail is second to none - from the exquisite design of the villas to the beautifully presented food at mealtimes, and this hidden retreat is surrounded by the rushing Pacuare River, tropical plants, animals and forest. This feeling of isolated wilderness and adventure feels ever more present when flying through the air on one of their excellent zip lines or hiking to a nearby indigenous village to sample their cuisine. It’s an assault on the senses in the best possible way, and beauty here is not just superficial; it runs deep. Though staying here now feels wonderfully indulgent, it’s still completely off-grid and water is solar heated. The lodge produces many of its own organic ingredients for the restaurant Nairi Awari, on its own farm, on the fertile mountain slopes of the Turrialba Volcano nearby. The incredible swimming pool is chlorine free and heated passively by special radiating tiles and as you swim you feel like you are on a runway into the forest. Wash this unique recipe for high end responsible tourism down with a fine, refreshing beer (Pacuare Lodge has its own micro-brewery, producing two unique craft beers). There is truly nowhere quite like Pacuare Lodge, a reason in its own right to visit wonderful Costa Rica!

Simon, Senderos

Getting there

Pacuare Lodge hides in the rainforest in the Limon Province of Costa Rica. It is about 20 miles from the town of Siquirres. Most guests raft here, along one of the world’s top whitewater rivers.

by road

BY ROAD

A 2.5-hour trip by road from San Jose, through jungle-covered mountains and past rolling sugarcane, macademia and coffee plantations.

by air

BY AIR

San Jose is the closest airport (150km). From here guests can helicopter to the lodge, too.