As the raft shimmied around another diamond shaped rock, I faintly heard the rumble of a class four river rapid ahead. The mountains stood quietly, butterflies flew sporadically, and a weeping waterfall poured from a gash in the rock. And then, there it was - slowly appearing around the bend, in the heart of the pumping Rio Pacuare, 840 acres of unrivaled beauty. This is Costa Rica's Pacuare Lodge - your most intimate rainforest experience!
Nestled above one of the most scenic rivers in the world according to National Geographic, The Pacuare Lodge goes out of their way to give you out of the way, constantly redefining the thick line between luxury and adventure. Boasting a variety of villas including the Canopy Suite, accessible by a private suspension bridge, and the charming Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite, perfectly perched on a forested ridge; you're either staying at the Pacuare Lodge or standing in its shadows.
Getting to the Pacuare Lodge is an adventure within itself! The day begins with a local breakfast against a backdrop of Costa Rica's rigid landscape. You'll enjoy the traditional dish Gallo Pinto, consisting of scrambled eggs, rice mixed with black beans, served with cheese, corn tortilla, and fruits. Then, for two hours, you'll glide happily over rocks, paddle in hand, chanting "Pura Vida" as your raft sashays from rapid to rapid splashing its way down a jewel-green stream. The adventure caps off with an individual staff meet and greet, a refreshing citrus drink, freshly baked banana bread, and a variety of local chocolate neatly placed in a heart-shaped dish inside your private suite.
At the heart of the Pacuare Lodge lies a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. All suites are built with lumber from a reforestation project administered by small farmers, allowing for minimal impact on the surrounding river and forest. Bathrooms are fully equipped with biodegradable amenities and solar heated water. However, the best part is the lodge’s lack of electricity. All suites and common areas are illuminated with lanterns after sunset, instantly creating a candle-lit oasis and the beginning of a romantic evening.
My suite was impeccably tasteful, with its natural design and polished décor. The Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite will offer a level of luxury that contradicts its remote location. Be prepared to experience 230 square meters spanning across the rainforest, a king-sized canopy bed, an open-plan living room dotted with leather goods, a spacious bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, a private dipping pool fed by natural spring water, and views of the Pacuare River from every angle - the bedroom, living room, shower and deck!
Whether dining in your suite or along the riverbank, once you’ve had your first meal at the Pacuare Lodge you'll quickly develop the impression that the lodge's food is merely the product of their own love for cooking and desire to craft memorable dishes inspired by rich flavors and local ingredients. For a more exciting visit, reserve a table for two at the "Nest”, a platform 60 feet high in a tree-top where guests can enjoy a variety of meals. The best part about it... you arrive by zip lining from a distant platform then rappelling back to the lodge once done!
At the Pacuare Lodge, adventure awaits at every turn. You can experience soothing spa treatments from local products as the Pacuare River whispers in the background. Or, you can select from many daring activities including a jungle canopy experience, white water rafting, and hikes to hidden waterfalls.
Come see for yourself why the Pacuare Lodge will make your next vacation an inspiring, luxuriant adventure!
The Pacuare Lodge nestled in the rainforest
Entering my private villa, The Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite
The Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite
A warm, Costa Rican welcome to the Pacuare Lodge
The Living room inside the Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite
The Bathroom inside the Linda Vista Honeymoon Suite
The Nest Restaurant
Dinner at the Nest
Afternoon hike to hidden waterfall.
