Lapa Rios runs along a ridge on the Osa Peninsula, hundreds of feet above the Pacific, within a private reserve of 1,000 acres that forms part of the last lowland tropical rainforest in Central America. It was built without cutting a single tree, and the lodge keeps its footprint small: solar water heating, and native palms planted to supply the thatch for its roofs. There are no phones, televisions or music in the rooms. The bungalows, suites and villas are open to the breeze, so there is no need for air conditioning, with hardwood floors, tiled bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, a garden patio and a private deck looking down to the sea. Meals are taken at Guapira, the lodge restaurant, and full board is included. Days can be as quiet or as active as you like: early bird walks, a canopy zipline, trips into Corcovado National Park by boat or on foot, surf lessons and dolphin outings. Arrival is by a short domestic flight from San José to Puerto Jiménez, then about 45 minutes in the lodge's own four-wheel drive.
- Rooms
- 16 bungalows, suites and villas
Insider tip Fly from San José to Puerto Jiménez rather than driving; the flight is under an hour, and the lodge collects you from the airstrip for the last 45 minutes.
Why I choose it A pioneering rainforest lodge with real conservation behind it, and the right base for Corcovado.