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8 August 2019 by Patrick Griffin
With its glorious beaches, Costa Rica seems custom-built for luxurious indulgence. However, you barely have to look closer to discover a rich natural world that cloaks some of the world’s finest wildlife experiences. To celebrate this unique symbiosis, I’ve picked out the following collection of Costa Rica’s finest boutique eco-properties, and an itinerary which includes stays at them all. Each one meets the stringent standards of Costa Rica’s highly praised Certification of Sustainable Tourism (CST) programme.
Lapa Rios Ecolodge, Osa Peninsula
Rated the top hotel in Central America by Condé Nast Traveller, the Lapa Rios Ecolodge is set on the remote, southernly Osa Peninsula. It’s positioned 350 feet above the Pacific and surrounded by tropical rainforest, featuring just 16 luxe bungalows, a fantastic infinity pool and superb full-board dining. You’ll spend your time on everything from surfing and horseback rides to rainforest hikes, looking out for squirrel monkeys and wild cats. Don’t worry, there’s also plenty of time for some golden-sands relaxation.
Lapa Rios Ecolodge from above
Lagarta Lodge, Nicoya Peninsula
Home to some of Costa Rica’s best beaches, the Nicoya Peninsula – in the country’s far northwest – is the perfect conclusion to any trip. To best experience its unique blend of sun-kissed relaxation and wildlife-filled rainforest, I particularly recommend a stay at Lagarta Lodge. Year round, literally thousands of turtles nest on its nearby beach every single month, with regular six-day periods where 500,000 hatchlings are born. That’s alongside the region’s spider monkeys, jaguars and colourful parrots.
Turtle hatchling
El Silencio Lodge, Bajos del Toro
El Silencio, as its name suggests, is surrounded by serene quiet, provided by the most diverse and accessible cloud forest in Central America. Positioned right in the country’s heartlands, guided hikes here bring you among thick jungles to discover secret waterfalls and mighty volcanoes. It’s all animated by the likes of toucans and mountain squirrels. You’ll then return each day to canopied suites, indulgent full-board dining and spectacular floor-to-ceiling views over the surrounding verdure.
El Silencio Lodge
