Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Pacuare Lodge
Turrialba and Pacuare, Costa Rica
At a Glance
Unique jungle lodge best accessed by exhilarating white water raft
Incredibly welcoming and friendly staff - the adventure guides often double up as waiters so you build up a real rapport
Very atmospheric - at night the lodge is illuminated by hundreds of candles and lanterns
Luxurious jungle accommodations with Egyptian cotton sheets, private decks, solar heated showers and some have their own spring-fed plunge pools
The food is a real highlight - romantic dinners can be arranged
Strong eco-credentials. Dedicated to sustainable tourism
Exclusive luxury experience in the middle of the jungle
The lodge focuses strongly on rainforest conservation
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
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.
Insider's View
For the best views in the whole resort book out the Puma suite, it's built on a right angle so its pointed terrace has panoramic views of the jungle below. Stunning.
Make sure to end your Canopy Ziplining adventure in style, zip into the final platform and make sure there is a bottle of champagne waiting for you - it can only help with the final rappel down!
Go on a nature hike with Edgar - the best naturalist guide with extensive knowledge and a fun attitude. He will show you the secrets and wonders of the rainforest and its habitants and also teach you about the Cabecear-one of Costa Rica's indigenous tribes that live nearby.
Call us on 858 345 1763 to start planning your vacation to Pacuare Lodge or take a look at our itineraries to Costa Rica
Description
Pacuare Lodge is a luxurious nature and adventure lover’s paradise hidden away in the heart of Costa Rica’s most pristine jungle. Best accessed by white water raft, it combines thrilling adventure activities and an abundance of wildlife.
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 21 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. Breathtaking views and stunning surroundings creating a warm relaxing atmosphere.
Childcare
Children are welcome to come and stay at Pacuare Lodge, but please note that a minimum age of 12 years is applicable 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.
Reviews
Jenny Weidemann (Staff)
This place is truly magical, and words are not going to do it justice. It is by far my favorite place and I urge everybody to get out of your comfort zone and go explore this amazing jungle lodge. Here you make memories of a lifetime. This is not a hotel stay, this is an experience. You start your journey with an easy raft (Class I-II) down the stunning Pacuare river with professional and fun guides. Once you get to the lodge you notice how far away you are from civilization. Here you find the perfect balance of isolation and luxury accommodation. The villas are spread out through the property, some on the side of the mountain, some right in front of the river and offer a very spacious outdoor bathrooms and super comfortable bedding. The sounds of the river is mesmerizing-sleep will wash over you within seconds of hitting the pillow. Wake up to the sounds of the birds and monkeys and get ready to explore. The activities are not for the faint heart, but if you are not up for the adrenaline rush- go for the nature hike with Edgar. He is best naturalist guide with extensive knowledge and fun attitude and will show you the secrets and wonders of the rainforest and its habitants and also teach you about the Cabecar-one of Costa Ricas indigenous tribes that live nearby. While offering this exclusive luxury experience, the main focus remains on rainforest conservation. All staff comes from the local communities, food is organic, the thatch roofs are built by the indigenous community and they are actively involved with the study of the endangered jaguar. Enjoy and feel good about it!
Sonia Bungaroo (Staff)
A completely unique way to experience the real magic of the rainforest in Costa Rica, this property delivered time and time again during the stay - offering complete privacy and immersion in the incredible natural beauty of the rainforest and really is a must try for those looking for an adventure in central America. Every single element of the property has been designed to encourage interaction with nature, and freedom in the wild, from the rafting in and out of the lodge, to the lack of solid barrier between your bed and the rainforest - forcing you to hear, smell and see all the beauty of the rainforest 24/7. Whilst some might approach the lack of electricity and light in the individual lodges themselves as a little disconcerting, if you embrace it there is nothing more magical or freeing, than to go back to a room lit by candles, or have your hair dry naturally in the warm breeze - or indeed to disconnect from every constantly pestering device we are beholden to! The most impressive glamping I've ever seen!
Dominic Atterton (Staff)
The adventure at Pacuare starts before you have even set foot in the hotel. The lodge sits on one of the premier rivers anywhere in the world for white water rafting and the ultimate way to arrive is by the river. The journey in takes about an hour and covers 4 miles of exhilarating white water. Once we arrived at the lodge hearts pumping and drenched we were immediately welcomed with warm smiles, fresh towels and a delicious drink. The lodge is really in the middle of nowhere bordered on one side by the river and the other by and endless expanse of pristine rainforest. After freshening up in the beautiful standalone jungle cottages we sat down for lunch. What really makes the place stand out is the service and the incredible staff. We found ourselves served lunch by Roy who minutes before had been guiding our raft down the river. It's one of those places where everyone does everything and does it with such pride you can't help but enjoy it. The lodge is luxurious, extremely stylish and a completely unique experience however its certainly not for everyone with no electricity apart from in the main reception area and tours and excursions that require a strong nerve and a good set of lungs. It's one of the most memorable places I've been to, not for its incredible natural setting or pulse racing experiences but for the insatiable passion and love that everyone involved has for the place. Thanks Pacuare!
Sarah Lee (Staff)
Pacuare Lodge in Costa Rica is without doubt one of my favorite hotels in Latin America as it is so totally unique! Getting to and from the lodge is a real adventure - perched on the banks of one of the most scenic white water rivers you arrive by an exhilarating raft through pristine jungle. There is an amazing feeling of isolation here. The rooms are luxurious and very comfortable despite being secluded in the middle of nowhere and the food is excellent. In the evening the lodge is lit by candlelight which creates an amazing atmosphere and I couldn't think of a more special honeymoon destination. My one little niggle is that it is tricky to read a book in the evening (without a head torch!) although having said that after a long day of exciting excursions I found it very easy to drift off and most guests go to bed early here.
(Press)
This beautiful lodge on the Pacuare River is best accessed by raft. The main building is set above the river and has majestic views, a large dining area (mostly al fresco), open kitchen and plush bar. There are 13 tastefully decorated cabanas, all with comfy beds, screened widows and views of the river or jungle. The Honeymoon Suite, set in lush rainforest on the hillside, has a spacious bedroom, a private plunge pool and a terrace that's ideal for wildlife-watching. Owner Roberto Fernandez takes responsible tourism seriously; there's no electricity, and at night the complex is lit with candles and lanterns; no trees were felled during its construction and donations from internet bookings are made to local schools.
(Press)
Could there be anything more exhilarating or romantic? Rafting down the river through virgin forest while exotic birds and butterflies cavort around you.
Every rapid is an adrenaline rush as your raft is whisked into a whirlpool eddy and you paddle madly before emerging with relief into calm waters on the other side. Then the fairy tale arrival - in the midst of the forest, on a bend in the river, Pacuare's thatched cabins are luxurious havens. They are candlelit at night and you dine like kings on organic food and fine wines, before drifting off to sleep with the murmur of the river. Quite breathtaking.
Offers
Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica - Complimentary Upgrade
Book your stay at Pacuare Lodge in 2021 and receive a complimentary room upgrade to the next room category.Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Blackout dates apply. Please speak to one of our specialists for more information.
| Book from | 22 January 2021 to 15 December 2021 |
| Travel from |
22 January 2021 to 18 December 2021 |
Experiences
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Rafting the Pacuare River
The Pacuare River offers some of the finest white water in Latin America, winding through rugged canyons deep inside one of Costa Rica's impressive rainforests. As no roads lead to Pacuare Lodge, rafting in and out is the perfect way to arrive in style!
Vacation Ideas
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Active Costa Rica
San Jose, Turrialba District, Arenal and Santa Teresa
from $6200 pp 11 nights
- Get off the beaten track to a remote jungle hideaway
- Ride rushing rapids and zip-line through the canopy
- Spot howler monkeys, sloths and brilliantly colored birds
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Costa Rica Uncovered
San Jose, Turrialba, Heredia, Osa Peninsula, Uvita
from $5100 pp 10 nights
- Plunge into your epic journey visiting the outdoor wonders of Poas Volcano, Doka Coffee Estate and the famous La Paz Waterfall
- Jump aboard your raft for an exhilarating white-water rafting journey along the Pacuare river, taking in the lush rainforest as you go
- Immerse yourself in the charming and remote Osa Peninsula, one of the most biologically intense places on earth
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Epic Costa Rica
Central Valley, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, Pacuare, San Jose
from $7000 pp 13 nights
- Stay at a boutique retreat surrounded by gorgeous scenery where you can savour the perfect cup of coffee in the morning, visit volcanoes during the day and enjoy spectacular sunsets and cocktails in the evening
- Spot sloths hanging out in trees and caiman swimming alongside your boat as you explore the pristine jungle and waterways of Tortuguero National Park
- Top up your tan and while away the hours in a hammock whilst sipping rum punch from a coconut, accompanied by pulsating reggae tones in the lively Caribbean beach town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
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Family Fun in Costa Rica
San Jose, Pacuare, Osa Peninsula, Arenal & Papagayo
from $8000 pp 13 nights
- Adrenaline pumped activities to suit everyone in the family
- Amazing wildlife experiences from sloth spying to kayaking with dolphins
- Robinson Crusoe inspired jungle lodges to bring out the explorer in everyone
Location & directions
Turrialba and Pacuare, Costa Rica
In the Turrialba district, 25 minutes from Siquierres. Pacuare Lodge is set deep in the rainforest jungle alongside the Pacuare River in eastern Costa Rica.
- 24/7 concierge service
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator