Designed to have zero ecological impact on the 123-acres of tropical dry forest that surround it, Kasiiya Papagayo is a secluded retreat comprising five artfully-designed tented suites that blend harmoniously with the surrounding flora and fauna. Built on wooden platforms amongst the forest with no concrete usage whatsoever, the Kasiiya ethos of treading lightly on the earth pervades every aspect of the resort, from the locally sourced, organic cuisine to the tranquil yoga classes amongst the forest.
Set at the heart of Kasiiya is the main lodge and the covered dining area that overlooks the waters of Laguna Beach. Meals are served around a long, wooden table and feature South American flavors and locally sourced, organic ingredients. Fresh fruits, seasonal vegetables and freshly caught fish combine to create a daily-changing menu that includes ceviche, fish tacos and delicious tropical desserts. Atop a steep hill sits the Sunset Lounge, the location for nightly cocktails and canapes as the sun sinks low over the Pacific Ocean and turns the sky burnished gold.
Some of private tented suites are accessed from a winding pathway just meters from the golden sands, while the two Laughing Whale Suites sit higher up on the hill and benefit from sweeping ocean views and each is set on a wooden platform with a wraparound decking area. Inside, timber floors and vast expanses of glass seamlessly blend the outside with the elegant interiors, furnished with king size beds, a sitting area and luxurious open-air bathroom with roll top bath. In keeping with Kasiiya’s eco credentials, water is obtained through rainwater harvesting and solar heated, whilst mini bars are given an eco-update using coolers (rather than refrigerators) which are refreshed throughout the day.
With wellness and nature such important elements of the Kasiiya experience, a three-tiered decking area has been built amongst the forest for daily yoga, meditation and movement practice under the expert tutelage of ‘movement specialist’ Bruno Giustozzi. Down on the golden sands of Laguna Beach is the beach cabana where snorkeling gear is available to borrow, to explore the crystal-clear waters of the peninsula that teem with life. Kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing excursions are all available for those in search of some more high-octane aquatic experiences. Back on land, a visit to Kasiiya’s spa is an unforgettable experience. With the jungle as a soundtrack, spiritual masseur and healer, Yamuna, provides a truly unique wellness experience using freshly prepared natural oils, indigenous herbs and muds to restore harmony and tranquillity.