Catarata Eco Lodge
Catarata Eco Lodge is an unpretentious, family atmosphere sporting La Fortuna accommodation that combines the best of responsible tourism, comfortable amenities and a variety of captivating natural experiences. Nestled in the shadows of the breathtaking Arenal Volcano, far away from the chaos of city life; Catarata is a mélange of natural relaxation, cultural discovery and environmental education. The property’s strategic location in Arenal’s risk free zone allows visitors to enjoy spectacular vistas of the volcano from a safe distance, while also awarding them the opportunity of indulging in a cultural rhapsody at neighboring village communities. In addition to pristine waterfalls, Catarata’s surroundings comprise thermal waters and lush rainforests, among several other incredible topographical wonders. This quaint countryside beauty radiating eco retreat has been dedicatedly involved in the preservation of natural resources for the benefit of future generations. Catarata is a perfect fit for visitors looking to savor the unassuming natural charm of Costa Rica minus the characteristic touristy feel in plusher resorts.
Finca Exotica
| Location: Osa Peninsula Price: $80-$125/night Features: Ocean view, yoga, organic food, river, waterfalls |
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Introduction
Finca Exotica is a rustic elegance meets eco values meets unmatched luxury property that is desirably juxtaposed between Osa’s secluded beaches and its famed tropical rainforest. From enjoying the organic foods cultivated on their farm to absorbing the untainted jungle energy by practicing yoga on the bamboo platform, guests can savor a whole range of natural experiences. The eco lodge is an organic farm cum retreat cum a significant portion of the lush Saimiri biological refuge. Built in 2001, the eco retreat has planted more than a thousand trees in the region along with several other community and conservation based initiatives for helping tourists enjoy the pristine appeal of Osa without damaging its rich biodiversity. Housed a stone’s throw away from the Cocovado National Park on the Carate Beach, Finca Exotica spells wholesome back-to-nature goodness, while retaining the comfort and convenience of chic vacation retreat.
Read MoreSelva Bananito Lodge
| Location: Salon Delia Price: $150-$195/per person per night Features:river, waterfalls, bird watching, rapelling, hiking trails |
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Introduction
Often included in the lists of the world’s “Top Ten Eco Lodges”, Selva Bananito has been consistently applauded for its sustainable practices and conservation techniques along with its beautiful rooms and breathtaking surroundings. This authentic eco-lodge is the singular Costa Rica property to be constructed out of recycled waste wood (that was the byproduct of logging activity that happened years ago), therefore minimizing the detrimental impact caused to almost 50 hectares of primary rainforest. Selva Bananito has also strived hard to utilize renewable sources of energy (in the form of solar heated water) from the onset. Everything from sitting the in open-air wraparound portico on the hammock to enjoying a candle lit dinner when the cabin’s oil lamps are burnt at sundown (the lodge doesn’t any feature any electric lights) spell rustic luxury. If you want to indulge is some slick, action-packed nature and adventure-based activities while still redeeming your conscience from destroying the environment, Selva Bananito is your paradise.
Read MoreTierra de los Milagros
| Location: Osa Peninsula Features: Beachfront, ocean view, spa, yoga, surfing, organic food, vegetable garden |
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Introduction
Flanked by picturesque beaches and tropical virgin rainforests on either side, Tierra de los Milagos is a secluded yoga retreat strategically hidden from the prowling touristy crowd within the wilderness of Osa Peninsula. One of the most bio-diverse regions on the planet, Osa shelters a rich assortment of wildlife species (sloths, toucans, monkeys) and botanical wonders. A stay at Tierra los Milagros is replete with a live jungle feel, surrounded as it is by waterfalls, vast canopy tree trails and tide pools. Innumerable beaches grace the landscape near Tierra de Milagros and offer guests the opportunity to soak up the Osa sun and surf in the near perfect waters of Costa Rica. In short, Tierra de los Milagros seeks to infuse an element of positive energy and a revitalizing aura in the minds/bodies of stressed vacationers within an unadulterated natural setting. The natural hide-away conducts year-round yoga retreats with master yogis.
The Best Ecolodges & Wilderness Resorts
The term “ecotourism” is now ubiquitous within the travel industry, particularly in Costa Rica. Ecolodge options in Costa Rica range from tent camps with no electricity, cold-water showers, and communal buffet-style meals to some of the most luxurious accommodations in the country. Generally, outstanding ecolodges and wilderness resorts are set apart by an ongoing commitment (financial or otherwise) to minimizing their effect on surrounding ecosystems and to supporting both conservation efforts and the residents of local communities. They should also be able to provide naturalist guides and plentiful information. All of the following do.