Top Hotels in Central America Lodges
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The 10 best Lodges in Central America,
Discover the best Lodges in Central America including Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa, Santa Juana Lodge & Nature Reserve, Palmar Beach Lodge, Jaco Lodge - Adults Only, Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge, Mawamba Lodge, Pachira Lodge, Rio Chirripo Lodge & Retreat, Poas Volcano Lodge, Finca Luna Nueva Lodge.
1. Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2677 reviews
Situated only 1.7 Miles from the majestic Arenal Volcano and with a spectacular view of Lake Arenal, the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa (AOL) offers guests the opportunity to DISCOVER, EXPLORE and RELAX. AOL sits on an 870 acres property and offers 48 comfortable rooms surrounded by gardens, the majority with a direct view of the volcano and/or the forest. The 7 miles of well-maintained trails for walking, horseback riding or biking running through the property provide good opportunities to observe a variety of flora and fauna. Approximately 500 species of birds live in the area making AOL a preferred destination for bird watchers. Activities at the hotel include hikes to the waterfall, horseback riding, enjoying a refreshing swim in our pool, or simply relaxing with a massage in our spa. Arenal Observatory Lodge is the perfect place for adventure lovers, families, and honeymooners. With its spectacular location, great service, and friendly personnel you won't be disappointed.
Great Views and Great Price!!
Reviewed By destinationdedeWe only were able to stay here one night, but it was a fantastic experience. After getting lost in the dark since there aren't a lot of lights on the streets in CR, we found the hotel and checking in was made super easy! The restaurant was about to close but they politely and excitedly welcomed us to get food as we were starving!The food and service was so GOOD! Our room was spacious and has a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano from the balcony and the other side of the room you walk out and can see the rainforest and hear all the sounds which is lovely. Highly recommend this place for views, area, and budget as well- would def come back!
2. Santa Juana Lodge & Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
5 based on 155 reviews
SANTA JUANA RURAL MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE LODGE & NATURE RESERVE Created to immerse our guests in an authentic Costa Rica rural mountain experience, Santa Juana Lodge takes you back to a simpler time, far from the stressful life of the modern world. Life in the jungle-covered slopes of the Central Pacific Mountains revolves around an agricultural tradition and the simple adventures of hiking, waterfall swimming, horseback riding, and exploring the nature reserve. This is an exclusive retreat, with beautifully appointed, freestanding cabins along the crest of a hillside ridge, each with panoramic views of the Pacific Mountain Wet Forest against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean spanning the horizon. Santa Juana is staffed by residents of the tiny Pueblo of Santa Juana. You’ll delight in their hospitality, enjoy delicious local food prepared in the traditional ways of the Costa Rican campesinos, and drink deeply of that most elusive commodity in our busy, hectic world — genuine relaxation. SANTA JUANA RURAL MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE TOUR There is no experience quite like the combination of the “magic of nature” and Costa Rica’s authentic rural heritage on this, our highest-rated tour. Greentique Certified Guides take you on an amazing tour of nature, conservation, and rural culture. You’ll hike along lush jungle-shrouded slopes where three rivers are born, then swim in one of the regions most pristine natural pool beneath a mesmerizing waterfall, spot all kinds of fascinating wildlife, fish for tilapia, visit an authentic sugar mill powered by massive oxen, and horseback ride (optional). Then step back in time to enjoy a traditional Campesino-style lunch while enjoying the panoramic vista of Manuel Antonio National Park and the Pacific Ocean that fills the horizon. You’ll also become a vital participant in the Carbon Offset/Native Tree Reforestation Program, adopting your own tree as you help conserve this priceless watershed within Greentique’s Cloudmaker Nature Reserve.
Warm and wonderful experience
Reviewed By lindafoxworthyThe Santa Juana Lodge is an exceptional experience. The casitas are lovely, and all have an amazing view, beautiful walk in shower and relaxing porch. Do not be deterred by the lack of air conditioning in this eco-friendly hotel—the breeze and fans are all you need .The personal attention and openness of the small staff there was outstanding. Allan, our guide, grew up in the little village there, and has tremendous knowledge and love for the local history, terrain and wildlife. His tours were excellent, and I learned to love bird watching. His mother is the chef at the open air restaurant, and in addition to her delicious traditional cooking, went out of her way to make pancakes and salads for our granddaughters. We stayed for three nights, and when time came to leave, felt we were saying goodbye to friends. Pura Vida
3. Palmar Beach Lodge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 655 reviews
Palmar is located directly on the famous Red Frog Beach, in the lush tropical rainforest of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Stay in a cabin, luxury bungalow, safari style tents, or shared dorms. Everything is fully solar powered, and all the water is rain-caught. The property features a large beachfront, restaurant, bar, lounge, and yoga studio. Activities include island tours, snorkeling, hiking, bonfires, movie nights, cacao farm visits, surfing, massage, ATV tours, zipline, and fishing trips. Free Wi-Fi and roundtrip boat shuttle are included for every guest.
Heaven
Reviewed By mbNChrisThis eco-oriented place lies on Isla Bastimentos in Bocas Del Toro. A variety of accommodations are available from tents to air conditioned cabins, all set in a lush jungle, steps away from the beautiful Caribbean beach. Their open air café is a sweet place to relax - no shoes required. Amazing fresh food at super reasonable prices. If you wish, you will meet nice people from all over the world, plus some cute dogs. Palmar staff are the best!! Allison the manager was endlessly helpful and everyone was warm and kind. A water taxi will take you from Bocas town to the dock on the bay side of Isla Bastimentos. The 15 minute hike to the lodge is best accomplished with a backpack. We had suitcases and are older with backs that ache more days than not. Were able to arrange for someone from the lodge to wheelbarrow our bags in for us - call/email ahead if needed! One piece of advice: staff take the 8am water taxi in, so don’t count on a wheelbarrow before then on your way out or in. We had massages right on the beach, took a yoga class, saw red frogs, swam daily, did not wear shoes for 5 days - it was heaven!!
4. Jaco Lodge - Adults Only
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 482 reviews
This property is a 10-minute walk from the beach. Jaco Walk Shopping Mall on Pastor Díaz Avenue, where most restaurants and nightlife are located, is just under half a kilometer away. The accommodations at Jaco Lodge feature colorful bedding, air conditioning and safes. The in-room amenities include flat-screen cable TV, a safe box, closet and a fridge. The bathrooms have a shower with hot water and free toiletries. The property is a space for guests over 12 years old. A continental very basic breakfast is daily offered for free. Playa Hermosa Beach is a 7-minute drive from Jaco Lodge, and Herradura Bay can be reached in 13 minutes by car. The property can help guests by contacting tour agencies to arrange outings and sightseeing trips. Juan Santamaría International Airport can be reached in 1 hour and 20 minutes by car. This property is also rated for the best value in Jacó! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to others of the destination.
Nice place but needs to tweak a few things
Reviewed By katemahealaniComfortable bed, nice atmosphere and friendly staff! My only complaints were that they did not have extra pillows and the shower did not get very hot. Also, the breakfast is VERY simple:m; just some toasts, hard boiled egg and fruits. I did not like the coffee or juice.
5. Arenal Oasis Eco Lodge & Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 453 reviews
This wonderful place is the results of several years of conservation, allowing to a different species of animal a new home; at the beginning of the 80's was a big cattle field and now it is a paradise for Sloths, Mexican Anteater, Gray Fox, Ocelots, howler Monkeys, Toucans, Manakines, Hummingbirds, Turkeys, Tree Frogs, Glass Frogs and Poison Dart Frogs, Snakes, Lizards and much more...Accomplishing this rich natural environment, the Rojas Bonilla family created some cabins out in the woods, restaurant and one thematic trail of a several stations all along the refuge, where the visitors get a speech about natural history of the species.
Adventure Lodge
Reviewed By Craig DThe trails and gardens offered a ton of wildlife and flora. We thoroughly enjoyed spending free time walking the property. The restaurant on the property was great for all meals and drinks and relatively inexpensive compare to other touristy restaurants. It is walking distance to la Fortuna falls if you enjoy a little adventure (about 25min). There was no AC, but the ceiling fan kept the room reasonable during this time of year. Highly recommend the night walk that they offer. We saw several frogs and reptiles!
6. Mawamba Lodge
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1603 reviews
Nestled in the heartland of the lush rainforest of Tortuguero Canals, Costa Rica, Mawamba Lodge and Tortuguero National Park are worth visiting year round. What makes us different? *Unbeatable location on a strip of land between the Tortuguero Canals and the Caribbean Ocean, providing direct access to both * The closest Lodge to Tortuguero town within walking distance (no need to take boats to town) * Free WI FI in selected areas of the hotel * Exciting ours including night walks in the forest, kayaking, fishing, canoes, and Katonga floating restaurant for sunset tours or dinners / lunches on board. *Medium-sized, private and quiet
Excellent location, a lot of room for improvement regarding services
Reviewed By lindaatschIdeally I’d like to give Mawamba Lodge a 3.5 rating, but as this is not possible I’ve gone for a rather generous 4. Positives: the location is really fabulous with the beach on one side and the river on the other side. Also possible to walk directly into town, which we enjoyed doing. Grounds and common areas are spacious, well looked after and very inviting. Breakfast was fresh and fine. Less positive: The rooms are very rustic. It felt rather like glamping. I didn’t mind the basicness at all, they are however rather tired and only surface clean. Walls are paper thin between rooms. When it is hot outside they are stiffling and damp. When it is cooler outside they get a bit chilly at night. Our room didn’t have a working light on the last leg of the path leading up to it and I didn’t feel at all comfortable walking to it at night in the pitch dark, especially on my own (far away from reception area). I did mention the broken path lighting at the reception but nothing was done about it. The reception staff weren’t very welcoming upon arrival and the lack of information e.g. about facilities and activities/tours etc was extremely lacking. It was also very hard work trying to find out information from them. Some customer service training very much needed! We didn’t find out until we’d been there nearly a whole day that the tap water isn’t drinkable and we only found this out quite by chance ourselves. Getting there, the surroundings, the rugged beach, the wildlife on your doorstep, the commutes by water taxi are all part of the adventure of Tortuguero. A shame that attention to detail isn’t given to the rooms and customer service/experience as well as the lovely surroundings.
7. Pachira Lodge
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1799 reviews
The lodge is strategically located only 5 minutes away from the extraordinary Tortuguero National Park, and right across the main "canal" facing the town of Tortuguero. Surrounded by a network of very scenic canals, this is considered one of the most exotic regions of the world, characterized by its rich in flora and fauna. Strategically located. 88 comfortable guest rooms. 14 hectares (34 acres). 5 minutes from Tortuguero National Park main entrance. Stay at one of our comfortable rooms with private bathroom, hot water and ceiling fans. Enjoy all our buffet-style meals that are included. Let's cheers with our wine when for dinner. Be our guest at our bar and enjoy our excelent service. Let us show you this paradise with our bilingual tour guides, during the entire trip. Take advantage of our daily departures from San José, with no minimum of passengers required. Travel safety as we get you around comfortably.
Basic yet good
Reviewed By Kim CPachira Lodge is a nice lodge with 88 rooms and most of them are together in separate houses of four rooms together. This is really nice as it provides a more unique experience in the middle of the forest. The tours could have been a little more adventurous but I did like the guides knowledge and high level of service. The rooms are simple, yet functionable. The heat is a little unbearable when there's only a fan and not ventilation or aircondition. It takes a bit to get used to as a Nordic person. I was missing a few things in the room, e.g. a place to hang wet towels. And some sort of table to sit at during the evening when there is nothing else to do in the public areas. There is not much life around the hotel after dinner. It would have been nice with a minibar, a vending machine or a kiosk to buy snacks to enjoy in the room. It is a little annoying to have to go to the bar every single time I needed anyting. Food is....well, let's just say food is being served as an inclusion at the hotel. But I really miss a little more spice and creativity. Three nights at the hotel with the exact same tastes every night. It gets kind of boring pretty quickly. And the staff could be a little more engaged in their job.
8. Rio Chirripo Lodge & Retreat
Overall Ratings
5 based on 271 reviews
Rio Chirripo in San Gerardo Costa Rica is one of the best-loved destinations and nature lodges. Here you can enjoy yoga, meditation, hiking, birdwatching, or pure relaxation. Let the spectacular natural surroundings of our beautiful retreat and Chirripo area rejuvenate body and soul. Our selection of rooms and cabins with private bathrooms are complemented by inviting communal areas and trails, as well as a free form riverside swimming pool and hot tub. Practice yoga in our magnificent space with a view of tropical forest and lush green hillside. We take pride in our home-grown organic vegetables lovingly propagated by our extended family community, which we carefully use in our consciously prepared meals. Rio Chirripo Yoga Retreat and Hotel are located four hours from International airport Juan Santa Maria in San Jose, Costa Rica and a few minutes drive away from the village of San Gerardo de Rivas, base camp for hikers and climbers who have their sights set on the peak of Cerro Chirripo, the highest mountain in Costa Rica. Besides Chirripo National Park, the Chirripo Valley is also the gateway to the cloud forest, with its waterfalls and hot springs, its breathtaking range of birdlife, butterflies, and orchids. We also help the traveler experience Costa Rica in its essence. We offer packages that allow our visitors to explore Chirripo’s picturesque rural villages and their people as well as honeymoon packages in the rainforest and of course our great yoga packages. Whether you’re an independent traveler looking for a unique hotel or part of a group trying to retreat from the pressures of a busy world, Rio Chirripo Yoga Retreat is a place where you will find harmony, positive energy, and a universal welcome.
Heavenly Place High in the Mountains!
Reviewed By corazonladronWe had our flight changed by one day departing and returning due to weather and tings were thrown into complete chaos, so I had to contact the hotel because the useless Expedia people could not get their act together. Fortunately for us, the lovely Stefannie answered the phone and she reassured us that all would be well and that the hotel would do everything in their power to take care of the situation. I am not a very trusting person when it comes to travel promises, but boy was I impressed with this young lady. Stefannie simply went to work with her manager and contacted us a couple of days later to reassure us that our reservation had been adjusted accordingly, get this, at no extra charge. Have you heard of that one before? I haven't. Then we get to the place and it is completely unexpected in the most awesome of ways. Beautiful scenery, lovely temperature, gorgeous gardens, and the facilities are to die for in a somewhat spartan way that makes you realize that when you are in setting like this, you don't need phones, computers, TVs, etc. Nothing but a good book. We get assigned the river cabin overlooking a thunderous waterfall that will lull you to sleep at night. The terrace if wonderful for birdwatching (over 20 new species added to my life list from the hotel grounds alone), Roger the bartender makes a Mojito that is to die for, but the biggest surprise of all is the food. The meals are $36.00 U.S. Dollars if memory serves me well, but when you make the reservations the hotel fails to tell you that it is not just a meal, it is a four course food experience, which along with the fabulous, and I mean fabulous (you can tell I liked this place) breakfast makes you wonder, how come you have just discovered this place. During one of the days we had a birding tour planned that would require us to leave before breakfast, so Stefannie and the crew surprised us after dinner with brown bag breakfast packages to carry with us (a delicious cheese sandwich, peanut/butter, fresh fruit, juice boxes, etc.) during our tour. Just thoughtful. We didn't even have to ask. Our experience was heavenly and the service is some of the best we ever had, only second to Viking Cruises' service, which is saying a lot. All the staff, but particularly Roger, Maria, Marcus, and most of all the gem that is Steffanie, along with the fantastic views of the river, the wonderful pool and hot tubs (2), and amazing wildlife make this place the reason why we are already looking at availability for next year. We were so turned off by our experience with the heat, the humidity, the hordes of tourists and hordes of aggressive hawkers in Manuel Antonio, that we swore on the way to Rio Chirripo that we would never go back to Costa Rica. But after our stay here, we are already looking at dates for our return to the mountains to Rio Chirripo. Sometimes you just get lucky and find that spot that makes you happy, this is definitely ours.
9. Poas Volcano Lodge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 565 reviews
Poas Volcano Lodge is a stunning mountain retreat nestled into rolling pastures, with breathtaking views of Poas Volcano and the northern Caribbean Plains. Offering 12 beautifully appointed bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, restaurant, tours, trails and much more. A perfect location to enjoy Poas Volcano, Waterfall Gardens, Coffee Tours, Rafting, Birding, Hiking and Zip-lining. A rural destination within 45 minutes of San Jose International Airport and en route to both Arenal, Sarapiqui and the Caribbean coast.
Two day staThey at Volcano Lodge Hotel
Reviewed By tomjO3950ZOVolcano Lodge Hotel is an excellent hotel. About 50 minutes from SJO. The room was very clean and the lodge seemed fresh and vibrant. Plenty of hot water in the shower and good water pressure. Wifi in room was good, The restaurant was very good and the breakfast i chose of homemade granola and pancakes was the best breakfast I have had in Costa Rica. Grounds were nice with lots of birds. The restaurant personnel were very friendly and helpful. Lodge was near the actually volcano which is worth visiting. We also had a fantastic massage at the hotel.
10. Finca Luna Nueva Lodge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 875 reviews
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is a sustainable rainforest eco-lodge hotel, offering an intimate experience of primary rainforest together with an organic biodynamic farm and also we have Certification for Sustainable Tourism in Costa Rica. In 2003 we decided to take our promotion of sustainable practices to the next level by building several beautiful eco-lodges using fallen timber from the farm. Since then we have added a 35 foot high bamboo observation tower, a solar heated Jacuzzi, an ozonated swimming pool, and a handicapped accessible rainforest trail. Now you can experience the Costa Rican rainforest, learn about our farm's sustainable practices and relax in our rustic yet luxurious accommodations. Walk through well-groomed rain forest trails on our guided farm tours and hikes, eat gourmet meals prepared from our fresh organic garden produce, and witness the majesty of the Arenal Volcano. For adventure activity enthusiasts, we are located only 30 minutes from La Fortuna, the adventure capital of Costa Rica, and home of world famous Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna is a must see destination for anyone seeking a thrill, and our experienced staff will be more than happy to schedule all of your activities and tours for you. With 17 rooms and 40 beds, accommodations can be made for both the traveler looking for an intimate getaway as well as housing for large groups and conferences. Cancellation Policies: High Season and Holiday Season • Within 45 days there are no charges. • Within 44 to 15 days there is 50% charge of the total amount. • Less than 15 days there is 100% charge of the total amount. • In case of no show there is 100% charge of the total amount. • In case of cancelations within 60 days, we reserve the right to require an increased deposit or modify refund provisions on future groups Low Season • Within 45 days there are no charges. • Between 44 and 15 days there is 25% charge of the total amount. • Less than 15 days there is 100% charge of the total amount. • In case of no show there is 100% charge of the total amount. • In case of cancelations within 60 days, we reserve the right to require an increased deposit or modify refund provisions on future groups
Amazing Stay in Costa Rican Jungle
Reviewed By andreasancheztripsLuna Nueva really felt like a home away from home! The land there is gorgeous, with beautiful infrastructure and the staff was beyond amazing. They are the most friendly and kind people you'll ever meet! The food is insanely good, and the location is ideal as it is only a short drive away from la Fortuna and a ton of tours and activities. There are tons of things to do on the farm from hiking and exploring the jungle to learning how to make cacao and all about edible plants, pool, bird watching, etc. The activities in the nearby areas include hot spring resorts, hanging bridges, hikes, horse back riding, zip lining, river rafting, animal tours and more. We will definitely go back!
