Description
Pacuare Lodge is a unique jungle hideaway set deep inside the rainforest on the banks of the Pacuare River, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful and exciting stretches of white water anywhere (class 3-4 rapids). It is a luxury eco lodge completely surrounded by nature in its most virgin form, and guests here can truly savour the spirit of the rainforest with its wildlife and exhilarating activities.
The palm-thatched lodge and luxurious bungalows have been constructed from native wood and designed to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. The bungalows feature a canopy king sized bed, hardwood flooring, hammock and terrace, outside shower with solar heated water with beautiful views of the lush vegetation of the forest reserve in which it sits. Go back to nature in your electricity-free room which has screens to let in the gentle breeze that rustles through the forest as well as the soothing sounds of nature. The two-storey main lodge is situated beneath giant tropical trees and has a pine-hewn deck for al fresco dining and an open-air living room with sitting area and hammocks on the first floor.
Getting here is half the fun - either by white water rafting on the Pacuare River or by road, while activities at the lodge range from immersive jungle hikes to nearby waterfalls, soaring through the canopy on the magical zip-line canopy tour, canyoning, thrilling white water rafting, bird watching and horse riding to visiting some of the local Cabecar Indian communities. At the end of a day exploring one of the most bio diverse rainforests in the world, why not relax with a massage on the veranda of your luxurious jungle retreat.
Sustainable tourism is a key factor here and the lodge has purchased 840 acres of primary rainforest along the Pacuare River for conservation. The environmental impact on the rainforest is minimized through a number of sustainable practices, from the use of spring water and solar-power to its work with local communities. No trees were cut down to build the lodge and the traditional roofs were constructed by local Cabecar Indians from palm leaves collected within the reserve.
Accommodation
Pacuare Lodge features 19 spacious suites and bungalows constructed from sustainable hardwood. Suites offer king size beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, leather chairs, a spacious bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers and a long deck and a private dipping pool fed by spring water.
Childcare
Children are welcome, but please note that a minimum age of 12yrs is required for the rafting activities.
Facilities
Facilities at Pacuare Lodge include an open air restaurant and kitchen, a wine cellar and open sided riverside lounge area with small bar.
Activities
Activities at the lodge include white water rafting, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, canopy tours, hiking and horseback riding.
When to travel
Year round destination, although November to April are the best months for sunshine. The ‘Green’ season, from May to October, is a good time to visit: it’s sunny in the mornings with rain in the afternoons. The quietest period is April to early June. The rain can be particularly strong in September and October.
Rafting is possible all year round, though the river might be slightly colder during the green season.
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Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Turrialba District, Costa Rica
In the Turriala district, 25 minutes from Siquierres. Pacuare Lodge is set deep in the rainforest jungle alongside the Pacuare River in eastern Costa Rica.
How to get there
15 hour flight (via Miami) to San Jose Juan Santamaria International. Guests are picked up by minibus in San Jose for the 2.5 hour drive to the ‘Put in’ on Pacuare River. You will then raft the 4 miles to Pacuare, which takes about 1.5 hours.
